LIGHT OF MENORAH: Recent Episodes
Rev John Ferret
The study of the Bible in its historical context - with a focus on the archaeology, history, geography, customs , culture, and even the languages of the ancient Middle East. WE ask what did they understand THEN - the original intent of the Lord - so that we can expand and enrich our understanding NOW and thus become true disciples of Adonai Yeshua as in John 8:31-32.
Across the world and in many ancient and modern cultures one finds stories of the ancient flood. Some are similar to the Biblical account. A credible scholarly website is “Answers in Genesis.” One can find an article at this website entitled, “Flood Legends.” Here’s the link to this article - https://answersingenesis.org/the-flood/flood-legends/flood-legends/ In this article it states that …
“Did you know that stories about a worldwide flood are found in historic records all over the world? According to Dr. Duane Gish in his popular book, “Dinosaurs by Design,” there are more than 270 such stories, most of which share a common theme and similar characters. So many flood stories with such similarities surely come from the Flood of Noah’s day.” (White, Dr. Monty. “Flood Legends: The Significance of a World of Stories Based on Truth.” AnswersinGenesis. Nov. 7, 2024. https://answersingenesis.org/the-flood/flood-legends/flood-legends/)
It is not surprising that this fact is used to conclude that the flood must have been worldwide; the flood we know so well in the Bible covered the whole earth. The problem is there is NO scientific evidence that conclusively shows the flood was worldwide. That it is worldwide is based many times upon the English translation of the Bible without taking into account the original Hebrew. It only makes sense that the flood being worldwide can not be based upon the flood legends and stories that are found worldwide and in many diverse cultures. The reason is simple as is stated in the article found at “Answers in Genesis.”
“The reason for these flood stories is not difficult to understand. When we turn to the history book of the universe, the Bible, we learn that Noah’s descendants stayed together for approximately 100 years, until God confused their languages at Babel (Genesis 11:1–9). As these people moved away from Babel, their descendants formed nations based primarily on the languages they shared in common. Through those languages, the story of the Flood was shared, until it became embedded in their cultural history.” (White, Dr. Monty. “Flood Legends: The Significance of a World of Stories Based on Truth.” AnswersinGenesis. Nov. 7, 2024. https://answersingenesis.org/the-flood/flood-legends/flood-legends/)
The article at “Answers in Genesis” included a great chart. It shows the widespread belief in an ancient flood among many ancient cultures.
(White, Dr. Monty. “Flood Legends: The Significance of a World of Stories Based on Truth.” AnswersinGenesis. Nov. 7, 2024. https://answersingenesis.org/the-flood/flood-legends/flood-legends/)
The Bible says there were only 8 people left after the flood. Moreover, the presence of humankind was regulated to the area of Noah’s day. Humankind was not the global in Genesis 6. Humankind was just beginning to expand and the flood destroyed that expansion. God started all over again with Noah and his family. Thus, the story of the flood was passed down from generation to generation from one family. Humankind expanded and it spread across the earth along with the flood story. So it is not surprising that we see the widespread flood legends across the world and that these legends have similar concepts as in the Bible but have also changed as per the culture and perspectives of each tribe and group and nation.
So, this does not prove the flood covered the entire earth. It shows that the real historical event of the flood in Genesis was passed down to generation to generation among humankind as it spread and expanded across the world. The issue however is not if the flood was global or local. I find this discussion rather pointless and seemingly the wrong thing to focus on. For me it is taking our eyes off the real question which is “why the flood – what was its purpose?” Come and join us in lesson 20. This lesson along with lesson 19 tries to get at this more critical question. Here’s the link to Lesson 19 - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/genensis-19-gen-65-821-and-john-529-the-flood-testifies-of-yeshua/?token=37a93cda3394b88790b3d0359cde7ba7 When we focus on this question we find it has a lot to do with Yeshua and the sacrifice of the Lamb of God and the Cross and the Gospel. This is the big picture and arguing over global or local flood to me clouds the real issue the Lord is trying to teach us in His TORAH which means “teaching” and not law.
Rev. Ferret - Who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/8qth6w4e56oub9js1w1gu/BackgrndTeacher-mar-25-2020.pdf?rlkey=f14fr2wmde5fezjmnrny8cycl&dl=0
In John 5:39 we read the words of Yeshua when He said ...
"You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me" (John 5:39 NASB).
All they had was the Old Testament in Jesus' day. Therefore, is there a connection with the purposes of the flood and the reason for the Cross? There is. It seems likely the flood testifies of the Messiah.
There are two critical verses to consider. Gen. 6:5 and 8:21. The first describes mankind before the flood. The second verse describes mankind after the flood. After the flood there were only eight people left, Noah and his wife, his three sons, and their wives. The verse are below.
Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great on the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.
(Gen 6:5)
The LORD smelled the soothing aroma; and the LORD said to Himself, "I will never again curse the ground on account of man, for the intent of man's heart is evil from his youth; and I will never again destroy every living thing, as I have done.
(Gen 8:21)
So Yahvay, the Lord God, is sad and decides to destroy all mankind. He does this and it is all because of the state of man as specified in Gen. 6:5. The flood occurs and now we are left with eight people. And God states that the condition of mankind (these remaining eight) hasn't changed! They are still ones whose heart is intent on evil from their youth. So, the flood did nothing. It did not get rid of sin and evil and man's inclination to sin. Is God saying that the only to get rid of evil, sin, and mankind's inclination to sin is to totally destroy all humans? If He had, if Yahvay also killed Noah and his family, there'd be no more sin. The Creator would've destroyed the Creature He made, man and woman, and we'd have a world with no sin and no evil. But, He left eight live. And they have the same condition as before the flood.
He left eight live. Is this perhaps related to a famous verse we seemingly all know and that is John 3:16 or
"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life."
(Joh 3:16)
Is He saying that the answer to the dilemma of the curse on us, on all mankind, our inclination to sin, is the sacrifice of Messiah, the death of Yeshua?
So join us as we study the answer to the fact that the flood did nothing, it did not rid the world of sin and death and evil. Join us as we again hear THE VERY WORDS OF GOD and see that scripture testifies of Jesus and the redemption plan of the Lord.
Rev. Ferret - Who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/8qth6w4e56oub9js1w1gu/BackgrndTeacher-mar-25-2020.pdf?rlkey=f14fr2wmde5fezjmnrny8cycl&dl=0
In the previous lesson I mentioned two verses I wanted to emphasize. The first was Genesis 4:9 and in this lesson it is Genesis 4:10. God tells Cain that his brother's blood cries out to the Lord. For me as a Christian reading it in English it seems to mean to me that God is simply saying that He has witnessed Abel's murder. However, it has deeper implications. So deep, matter of fact, that this verse is related to the Bible's view that killing a baby in the womb is more than one death! But, the key is, NOT in English but in Hebrew.
Once again we need to reconnect to those amazing scholars Jew and Gentile to help us see what the Hebrew means and how it was understood in Jesus' day and before. Thus, once we understand the Lord's original meaning it helps us today apply it the way it was intended. Many times in this series I bring up two sources that are so helpful for the study of the Torah for us Christians. One is the Torah commentary by Dr. John Currid. The second is the JPS (Jerusalem Publication Society) Torah Commentary. I recommend both of these resources for any of you who are serious Bible students.
Another great resource is this web site (link below). It is entitled "Hebrew 4 Christians." At this website are amazing resources for you to go deeper in understanding the Jewish background of the Bible, to learn Hebrew, and to study Torah as a disciple of Yeshua. Here's the link - https://hebrew4christians.com/index.html
Rev. Ferret (above - in a tomb in the necropolis of the ancient city of Hierapolis in Turkey) - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
ROSH HASHANA EPISODE 4
(ROYALTY FREE IMAGE AT WWW.KINGPNG.COM)
In lesson 4 we seem to get at the primary connection between this feast of the Lord, this "appointed time" commanded by Him, His מוֹעֲדִ mo'ed and Yeshua HaMaschiach, Jesus the Messiah, the Christ. Jesus said (John 5:39) that SCRIPTURE testifies of Him. So, this feast in Torah likely testifies of Him.
We will focus on those coming out of Egypt and the one shofar blast that was beyond loud, strong. It was awesome, amazing, and unbelievable. As we study the events of this shofar blast it seems to create a definite connection to an event in the future - an event that mirrors the event experienced by the Hebrews at Sinai. It takes us to a certain mountain, a specific location that we are all looking forward to.
I mentioned in this lesson about Rabbi Saadia Gaon living in the early 10th century A.D. He suggested there were ten events related to the Shofar we should relate to Rosh HaShana. (NOTE: the actual name used by God is Yom Teruah, the Day of the Blast. Rabbis made up the name Rosh HaShana. Their views of the Lord's feast and its meaning is unbiblical and not close to the Lord's purpose). If you wanted to read the actual words of Rabbi Gaon check the link below. Also, check the link below that shows that Rosh HaShana is not what God wanted or intended. God named this this "appointed time," this מוֹעֲדִ mo'ed, one of His feasts as in Leviticus 23, יום תרועה, Yom Teruah - the day of the blast (shofar blast is assumed). The rabbis changed it and took out of the Bible, took out of the context of God's word.
LINK 1 - ten shofars of Rabbi Gaon
https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/128856?lang=bi
LINK 2 - Rosh HaShana is not biblical and of God but Yom Teruah is
https://booksnthoughts.com/rosh-hashanah-is-not-a-biblical-holiday/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
God asks Cain where Abel was? He was not around? Something had happened. We know that something happened when we read ...
"Cain told Abel his brother. And it came about when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother and killed him." (Gen 4:8)
This was the first murder stemming from Cain's anger as recorded in the Torah. And we know that it says that ... "You shall not murder." (Exo 20:13). The King James got it wrong when it says thou shalt not kill. The Hebrew word is תרצח H7523 pronounced "tretzach" does not mean kill but murder as in the Gesenius Lexicon. And later in Exod. 21:12-14 we read ...
"He who strikes a man so that he dies shall surely be put to death. But if he did not lie in wait for him, but God let him fall into his hand, then I will appoint you a place to which he may flee. If, however, a man acts presumptuously toward his neighbor, so as to kill him craftily, you are to take him even from My altar, that he may die." (Exo 21:12-14)
But, if God wants murderers executed why was Cain kept alive? Shouldn't have Cain been killed by God to maintain unity of His law and commands? Interesting. Let's go and explore this event in its historical context and in the Hebrew and not the English.
Rev. Ferret (above - teaching at the gates of the ancient city of Gezer) - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check it out at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
TRUTH NUGGETS 19 part 1
In this vidcast (video), "Against the Gods," we will again study God's word in its historical context. However, this time we add a new perspective to our study. We will continue to ask what those early believers heard and saw and understood when they first heard God's word. But, we will also see how God comes against the pagan gods and man made religions in the ancient Middle East in very unique ways in His word. This time we will see how God taught His people, the Hebrews, in ways that would make sense only to them in their day.
We would not recognize it as we read the Bible. God is writing to a people thousands of years ago using concepts only they understood and not us. Dr. John Currid, a highly credible Egyptologist, archaeologist, and theologian, wrote a book entitled, "Against the Gods." His thesis in the book is to show us how we in the 21st century miss how God taught His people in their time using things they were familiar with. Here's an example Dr. Currid uses his paper, "The Nature of Polemical Thought and Writing." He writes ...
A STRONG HAND - Some common expressions found in ancient Egyptian texts to describe the power of Pharaoh over his foes are that the monarch had “a strong hand,” or “he possessed a strong arm,” or he was “the one who destroyed his enemies with his arm.” It is ironic that the author of the book of Exodus assigns the same features to the Lord as he humiliates and destroys Pharaoh and Egypt (Ex. 3:19–20; 6:1; 7:4; 15:6, etc.).
James Hoffmeier, a famous Egyptologist, comments on this parallel, asking, “what better way for the Exodus traditions to describe God’s victory over Pharaoh, and as a result his superiority, than to use Hebrew derivations or counterparts to Egyptian expressions that symbolized Egyptian royal power?”
For most of us this would have escaped us completely. We are not familiar with ancient Egyptian writings nor are we into the ancient culture and customs on Egypt in the days of Moses. But, God is clearly inspiring Moses to use an Egyptian idiom that the Hebrews would have been familiar with. God uses this to come against Pharaoh and show His power over Pharaoh and all Egypt. In this way God uses something Egyptian to teach His people about Himself and His character. However, we will also see that these amazing lessons that made sense to those first believers also make sense to us today in the 21st century. Ready? Let's begin our first lesson. Let's see how God uses Genesis 1:1 to teach His people coming out of Egypt that He is God and not Amun Ra. Let's also see how this relates to us today, us being His people, and knowing that God never changes (Mal. 3:6). He was the same 3400 years ago and today.
Link to John Currid's article referenced above - https://www.monergism.com/thethreshold/sdg/polemic.html
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?
What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
God creates whales and seals and sharks and lobsters and walleye and catfish and cows and dogs and lions and tigers and pigs ... He creates all the "living creatures." In Hebrew the word is נֶפֶשׁ nephesh. But, God also "forms" man and man is called נֶפֶשׁ nephesh. Are animals and man the same? Today some say this is the case. Today some say animals have the same rights as humans since animals and humans are the same. How can this be? Moreover, Jewish and Christian translators translate נֶפֶשׁ nephesh as soul! For example in Deut. 6:5 it says we are to love God with are whole heart and soul or נֶפֶשׁ nephesh. So, the Bible in English could be used to justify the crazy world view that animals and humans are the same. They are living creatures and they have souls!
How does God distinguish man from the animals? Is there something we are missing? You bet.
Another thing we will study in lesson 9 is that God uses His Torah as a polemic against Egypt. Again, a polemic is a strong truth claim attacking an opposing truth claim. God is inspiring Moses to write a polemic against Egypt. An example is in Egypt there is a god called Khum. See the royalty free picture below of the god Khum from CLKER.com.
He is a creator god and in one of the creation stories in ancient Egypt, Khum is called the POTTER in that Khum formed all creation, stars, planets, sky, the earth, the oceans, and all animals and plants and man and woman and all the gods on his potter wheel. Here is a link to an article about the Egyptian god Khum that you may be interested in as an addition to your study - https://ancientegyptonline.co.uk/khnum/
But the Bible says that the God of the Bible is the potter and we are the clay. But now, O LORD, You are our Father, we are the clay, and You our potter; and all of us are the work of Your hand. (Isa 64:8) How does God come against Khum? How does God inspire Moses to help the Hebrews coming out of Egypt see that Khum is not the potter, not the creator, and a false god?
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?
What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
We find again in this lesson that God comes against the law codes of the ancient Near East. One such code is the Code of Hammurabi who was the sixth Amorite king of the Old Babylonian Empire, reigning from c. 1792 to c. 1750 BC. His code is 282 laws written 300 years before the Exodus. In this code any thief is to be executed. This is seemingly regardless of the theft or the seriousness of the crime. Just imagine that shoplifters who come in gangs to steal and rob from retail stores today would all be caught and killed in ancient Babylon.
Below you can see the Stele of Hammurabi – on this stone pillar the 282 laws of Hammurabi are engraved. This picture is royalty free and is accessible at Wikimedia.
I mentioned I’d include an article that addresses the issue of self defense for Christians. It is a solid article and provides awesome scriptural support for its position that indeed the Lord allows for self defense. The link is below …
https://www.gotquestions.org/self-defense.html
But, another article you may find as interesting addresses the question asking whether Jesus was a pacifist. I have found that those who hold to such a belief sometimes use the commandment “thou shalt not murder” and interpret it to mean “thou shalt not kill.” If the commandment is the later it seems easy to say then that God is against any killing – killing in war, killing in self defense, the death penalty, and on and on. So, check out this article that discusses the question if Jesus was a pacifist. I addressed this is more detail in the podcast relating to the commandment. Here's the link below ...
https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/exodus-47-lesson-13-exod-2013-no-murder/
One thing to keep in mind is Jesus is GOD and GOD said He never changes as we read in Mal. 3:6. The link to the article is below …
https://www.gotquestions.org/Jesus-pacifist.html
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
We will continue with the verse Gen. 2:3. The Hebrew - not the English - suggests that God stopped creating works that were still yet to be done! Huh? Works yet to be done? Works created but had not even started or were completed? Works for the future? This is too awesome since this implies that we, made in His image, are to go and work just like Him. Hmmm, does the Bible teach that? It suggests right from the "get go" we were created for a purpose. But, did God specify it in His Word and not imply or suggest?
It seems clear also that this implies Jesus as well. He said that He is doing the works given to Him by the Father. He tells those listening to Him then in John 5 that He will even do greater works than what they just saw (He had just healed a man lame for 39 years). On top of that Jesus tells us on the night before He died in John 14 that if we are His true talmideem - His true disciples - that the works the Father gave Him Jesus gives to us and we also will even do "greater works." It is as if Gen. 2:3 is God's first prediction of the good news coming in the future. Now the verse Eph. 2:8-10 makes sense. Yes! We are saved by grace but at the same time we are God's workmanship created in Christ Jesus (that means we the ones called by His name, we are the ones who state that Jesus is our Lord, our Savior, God, we are His true disciples) for GOOD WORKS created BEFORE HAND!!
This is an amazing connection of Eph. 2:8-10 to the Torah. But, why should it surprise us. When Paul wrote the letter to Ephesus the only Bible they had was the Hebrew Scriptures, the Old Testament.
This lesson will also address the Documentary Hypothesis - a theory that states that Moses never wrote the Torah. We will study this anti-Bible theory and show that it is false. It comes against Jesus' own words when Jesus states clearly many times that the Torah is of Moses or the Torah are the "books of Moses." Below is a link to a deep scholarly article from the Associates for Biblical Research that shows the Documentary Hypothesis is wrong and should be buried forever. Here's the link ... https://www.biblearchaeology.org/research/topics/biblical-criticism-and-the-documentary-hypothesis/2328-the-documentary-hypothesis
On top of that, the Sabbath (שַׁבָּת Shabbat in Hebrew) testifies of Messiah Yeshua, Jesus the Christ. Check it out from one of the chapters in one of the class books from Light of Menorah. Here’s the link - https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/owszf7iszt7wkykkonggs/SHADOW-OF-MESSIAH-OVER-THE-SHABBAT.pdf?rlkey=axyzu36d3x1457cmp5z823xrw&st=m5flxovt&dl=0
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
We are living through days of horror and unspeakable evil as innocents are slaughtered, murdered, burnt alive, and kidnapped. In Israel entire families were killed, savagely. One might ask is this a sign of the End Times? In the End Times there there will be seven seals opened. The 1st four seals are related to the FOUR HORSES OF THE APOCALYPSE. One wonders, have they arrived? Don't miss this video and the possible meaning behind the color of the horses - white and red and black and green.
This picture is royalty free accessible at Wikimedia
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
God does something so very interesting. First, God is out side of time. Time only is created when we have the sun and the moon. So, there is no time before the creation. And in Genesis 2:1-3 we see that God makes time kadosh קָדוֹשׁ - which is translated as holy. From the Gesenius Hebrew Lexicon we find that kadosh means to be set apart, to be set aside, to separate as special, to be distinct. Time is the first thing that God makes kadosh or set apart. Pagans make statues holy. Pagans make trees or animals holy. Pagans make buildings holy. Yet, the one God, the only God, He makes time uniquely special. One day per week there is a 24 hour period that we enter into that is special and unique. Why? More than that we read in English that God rested. Rested? God needs a nap? God needs to kick back and "take a load off?" Huh??
Did God rest in the 7th day? Later in Exodus does He also command us to rest on the 7th day, to lay back, to take a nap? The answer is NO!! Absolutely not. Curious? Come join us in lesson 7 and reconnect to those ancient days and to the Hebrew of the Torah and come and learn the Gospel written by Moses under the inspiration of Adonai.
On top of that, the Sabbath (שַׁבָּת Shabbat in Hebrew) testifies of Messiah Yeshua, Jesus the Christ. Check it out from one of the chapters in one of the class books from Light of Menorah. Here’s the link - שhttps://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/owszf7iszt7wkykkonggs/SHADOW-OF-MESSIAH-OVER-THE-SHABBAT.pdf?rlkey=axyzu36d3x1457cmp5z823xrw&st=m5flxovt&dl=0
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?
What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Exodus 52 Part 1
I was so amazed as I began researching and studying to prepare this podcast. I learned that in these verses (Exod. 21:26-22:1) we are taught by the Lord of His view of the great importance of the sanctity of life. The picture I used for this lesson is of an ox. And in these verses the ox plays a huge role. It is how the Lord teaches us about that fact that 1) all men and women, all, no matter what race of creed are made in His image and 2) everyone is our neighbor whether a fellow Christian or a radical member of the LGBTQ+ community or a radical Muslim terrorist and 3) and to be a true follower of Rabbi Jesus one must adhere to what He teaches His talmideem (Hebrew for disciple) that we are to love our neighbor as ourselves and that includes our enemies, the ones who persecute us, the ones who hate and would kill us for our faith. Wow!! There is a little more to being a Christian than we are taught.
I mentioned a number of links I’d provide that would enhance your study in the podcast. Here they are …
An article from “My Jewish Learning” talking about the fact the preserving and saving a life is higher than even adhering to the laws of the Sabbath …
https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/saving-a-life-pikuach-nefesh/
Next is an article from a scholarly rabbi who teaches us about the phrase “pikkuah nefesh doheh Shabbat” or saving a human life takes precedence over the Sabbath. This might have been understood in Jesus’ day – maybe not practiced by definitely discussed. There is NO law that says one can not provide medical treatment on the Sabbath. It was hotly debated in Jesus’ day but no conclusions had been reached then. Later in Judaism it was decided – it is good to heal and provide medical treatment on the Sabbath. Jesus had entered the debate in His day and His stance was the one that finally became the law of Judaism. For the Lord, for God, it was already His priority and it took years of the Jewish rabbis to finally get it. Here’s the article …
https://images.shulcloud.com/618/uploads/PDFs/Divrei_Torah/200506-Pikuachnefesh--SavingaLife.pdf
Skip Moen is a reputable Christian scholar. It is worth your while to make sure you connect with Skip at his website (https://skipmoen.com/) to learn more about the Jewish roots of our faith. He wrote and article addressing the concept of healing on the Sabbath in Jesus’ day. He brings up the great Rabbi Shammai and Rabbi Hillel. These rabbis had a great influence on Judaism of the Second Temple in Jesus’ day. You’ll be amazed that indeed Jesus healed on the Sabbath and never did anything wrong. Check it out …
https://skipmoen.com/2015/07/whose-halachah/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?
What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Exodus 52 Part 2
I was so amazed as I began researching and studying to prepare this podcast. I learned that in these verses (Exod. 21:26-22:1) we are taught by the Lord of His view of the great importance of the sanctity of life. The picture I used for this lesson is of an ox. And in these verses the ox plays a huge role. It is how the Lord teaches us about that fact that 1) all men and women, all, no matter what race of creed are made in His image and 2) everyone is our neighbor whether a fellow Christian or a radical member of the LGBTQ+ community or a radical Muslim terrorist and 3) and to be a true follower of Rabbi Jesus one must adhere to what He teaches His talmideem (Hebrew for disciple) that we are to love our neighbor as ourselves and that includes our enemies, the ones who persecute us, the ones who hate and would kill us for our faith. Wow!! There is a little more to being a Christian than we are taught.
I mentioned a number of links I’d provide that would enhance your study in the podcast. Here they are …
An article from “My Jewish Learning” talking about the fact the preserving and saving a life is higher than even adhering to the laws of the Sabbath …
https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/saving-a-life-pikuach-nefesh/
Next is an article from a scholarly rabbi who teaches us about the phrase “pikkuah nefesh doheh Shabbat” or saving a human life takes precedence over the Sabbath. This might have been understood in Jesus’ day – maybe not practiced by definitely discussed. There is NO law that says one can not provide medical treatment on the Sabbath. It was hotly debated in Jesus’ day but no conclusions had been reached then. Later in Judaism it was decided – it is good to heal and provide medical treatment on the Sabbath. Jesus had entered the debate in His day and His stance was the one that finally became the law of Judaism. For the Lord, for God, it was already His priority and it took years of the Jewish rabbis to finally get it. Here’s the article …
https://images.shulcloud.com/618/uploads/PDFs/Divrei_Torah/200506-Pikuachnefesh--SavingaLife.pdf
Skip Moen is a reputable Christian scholar. It is worth your while to make sure you connect with Skip at his website (https://skipmoen.com/) to learn more about the Jewish roots of our faith. He wrote and article addressing the concept of healing on the Sabbath in Jesus’ day. He brings up the great Rabbi Shammai and Rabbi Hillel. These rabbis had a great influence on Judaism of the Second Temple in Jesus’ day. You’ll be amazed that indeed Jesus healed on the Sabbath and never did anything wrong. Check it out …
https://skipmoen.com/2015/07/whose-halachah/
Ferret? Who is this guy??
What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In lesson 6 we consider the Torah, the 1st five books of the Bible, as a polemic. A polemic is a concept that is diametrically opposed to a competing concept. God seems to indicate this in Lev. 18:1-5 when God said ... Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, "Speak to the sons of Israel and say to them, 'I am the LORD your God. 'You shall not do what is done in the land of Egypt where you lived, nor are you to do what is done in the land of Canaan where I am bringing you; you shall not walk in their statutes. 'You are to perform My judgments and keep My statutes, to live in accord with them; I am the LORD your God. 'So you shall keep My statutes and My judgments, by which a man may live if he does them; I am the LORD. (Lev 18:1-5, NASB) It is if God is inspiring Moses to write parts of the Torah as a polemic that comes against the truth claims and pagan mythology of Egypt. Clearly, God wants to help His chosen people to get Egypt out of their life and prepare for entering the pagan world of the Canaanites in the Promised Land.
Later when we get to Genesis 50 and Exodus 1 and 2 we will study in detail the Bible proof that the Hebrews slowly but surely assimilated into the Egyptian culture - most of them forgot the God, the only God, the God of their fathers, of Abraham and Isaac and Jacob. For further study use this link to study the idea that the Hebrews had assimilated into the pagan culture of Egypt.
Link to an article from World History about the Canaanite god YAMM the enemy of Ba’al - https://www.worldhistory.org/Yamm/
Here's the link to study that the Hebrews assimilated into Egypt –
https://halakhaoftheday.org/2023/03/29/from-propsperty-to-assimilationn/
Here's a podcast from Light of Menorah also a study that the Hebrews assimilated into the Egyptian culture -
LINK - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/the-gospel-according-to-moses-lesson-4-part-2-exod-211-25/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?
What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In lesson 5 we focus again on the critical verses in Genesis chapter 1. In this session we will address the concept of God creating everything through His word; creating everything by simply saying let it be and it was - out of nothing - EX NIHILO. And, in addition, this lesson will introduce the idea that to understand the Torah we need to understand ancient Egypt of the 18 Dynasty at the time of the Exodus. The Hebrews likely have assimilated into the Egyptian culture and, for the most part, do not know the God of Abraham and the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob. So how does God take Egypt out of the Hebrews? This concept is called "polemic theology" where a polemic is a concept that is diametrically opposed to a competing concept. In this case who is God? Is it Amun-Ra, the supreme pagan false god of Egypt in 1446 B.C. or is it Adonai Eloheem, the Lord God of the Bible? How would the true God teach the they mythology of Egypt is false and incorrect using Genesis 1:1-2?
For further study check out the links below.
Use this link to study the idea that the Hebrews had assimilated into the pagan culture of Egypt. Here's the link - https://youtu.be/9tY5N0mAJ2I?si=7SzXFQWg0ZP4Hj3F
Here’s an article on the ancient Egyptian creation accounts - https://www.glencairnmuseum.org/newsletter/2021/7/13/ancient-egyptian-creation-myths-from-watery-chaos-to-cosmic-egg
Short cool video on the ancient Egyptian creation myth - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTy49JlgJZE
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?
What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
FIVE SMALL STONES
EPISODE 18 PART 2
"WHO'S YOUR NEIGHBOR?"
THE GEOGRAPHY OF THE GOOD SAMARITAN
Bible reading and study are necessary for a true Christian, a real disciple (talmeed) of Adonai Yeshua - not just reading. Are you in a church that provides Bible classes and training? You'd better be or that church is NOT attempting to obey Jesus' command to make disciples. To make a disciple directly implies Bible study besides reading.
There was a saying in Jesus' day among the rabbis of which He was the greatest. It shows that study leads to learning and learning's purpose is to know how to Do.
ללמוד כדי ללמוד וללמוד לעשותLeeLemod Qeday LeeLemod Vay' LeeLemod Vay'Asot
Study to Learn and Learn to Do In the parable of the Good Samaritan was this just a made up story? Was there a road between Jericho and Jerusalem? If so is there facts about this road we missed? And why did the Jewish nearly get murdered? Does this have something to do with the road and its surroundings? Was there an "inn" on this road? Or was just Jesus making all this up? Or was it based on real places and the real plausibility of these events in the Bible?
In these two 5-minute videos (part 1 and 2) we will study the Bible. We will study it with the geography of ancient Israel in mind. We will see how knowing the geographical background of the parable of the Good Samaritan adds to and enriches our understanding of this story Jesus told.
Did you miss episode 1? Not problem. Below is the link to the first episode. Watch this one first to understand episode 2.
Link - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/five-small-stones-18-part-1-the-geography-of-the-good-samaritan/
Also, there is a video you can't miss. it is only 11 minutes and shows the REAL Jericho Road and not the mistaken one most people teach about.
Link - https://youtu.be/zVmagXx-n34?si=ZuJTc92t0OJ_yogX
Here's references that prove that the inn in the parable was a very real place. It was even excavated by Israeli archaeologists. I even met one of them when I was on a research trip to Israel and visited the exact location.
Here's the 1st link. It is an article from Biblical Archaeology Review. I assume you have to be a member to access the complete article. I highly recommend you join this scholarly site since it will be a critical resource for your Bible study and reading. Below you'll find the link but below are two highlights from the article.
See below for the highlight from the article - note the "inn" referenced in this segment refers to the museum called "The Inn of the Good Samaritan." It even gives the names of the archaeologists who excavated the palace built by Herod. (Click on the image to enlarge)
Here's the link to the article from Biblical Archaeology Review mentioned above.
Link - https://www.baslibrary.org/biblical-archaeology-review/38/1/8
This link is to a awesome academic article proving beyond a shadow of doubt that there was an inn on the Jericho road at the location of the Good Samaritan Museum. The inn likely was formerly Herod's palace at this site. Here's the link ...
https://www.jstor.org/stable/j.ctt1x76gr7.5?seq=7
Shown below are two more excellent scholarly sites (free access) and their corresponding articles on the parable of the Good Samaritan. Once again, these are awesome sites to save for future reference.
HolyLandSite.com - https://www.holylandsite.com/inn-of-the-good-samaritan
BibleWalks.com -https://www.biblewalks.com/goodsamaritaninn/
In one of my many classes I taught on the Jewish parables of our Jewish Rabbi, Yeshua. One parable I focused on was the parable of the Good Samaritan. Here's a link to the complete chapter from the class book.
Link - https://www.dropbox.com/home/2020...2021%20POD%20AND%20VID%20CASTS?preview=Parables2..GoodNeighbor.pdf
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?
What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
FIVE SMALL STONES
EPISODE 18 PART 1
"WHO'S YOUR NEIGHBOR?"
THE GEOGRAPHY OF THE GOOD SAMARITAN
Bible reading and study are necessary for a true Christian, a real disciple (talmeed) of Adonai Yeshua - not just reading. Are you in a church that provides Bible classes and training? You'd better be or that church is NOT attempting to obey Jesus' command to make disciples. To make a disciple directly implies Bible study besides reading.
Or perhaps your church is one with a lot social programs and fellowship and cookouts and fun activities. All these are important. They are critical for developing a community. But, in Jesus' day the study of the Bible was considered the highest form of worship! STUDY! Not a Sunday service. Not music and singing. Not a men's group or women's group. Not prayer. But, STUDY.
There was a saying in Jesus' day among the rabbis of which He was the greatest. It shows that study leads to learning and learning's purpose is to know how to Do.
ללמוד כדי ללמוד וללמוד לעשותLeeLemod Qeday LeeLemod Vay' LeeLemod Vay'Asot
Study to Learn and Learn to Do In these two 5-minute videos (part 1 and 2) we will study the Bible. We will study it with the geography of ancient Israel in mind. We will see how knowing the geographical background of the parable of the Good Samaritan adds to and enriches our understanding of this story Jesus told.
In these videos I mentioned resources and references that prove that the inn in the parable was a very real place. It was even excavated by Israeli archaeologists. I even met one of them when I was on a research trip to Israel and visited the exact location.
Here's the 1st link. it is an article from Biblical Archaeology Review. I assume you have to be a member to access the complete article. I highly recommend you join this scholarly site since it will be a critical resource for your Bible study and reading. Below you'll find the link but below are two highlights from the article.
See below for the highlight from the article - note the "inn" referenced in this segment refers to the museum called "The Inn of the Good Samaritan." It even gives the names of the archaeologists who excavated the palace built by Herod. (Click on the image to enlarge)
Here's the link to the article from Biblical Archaeology Review mentioned above.
Link - https://www.baslibrary.org/biblical-archaeology-review/38/1/8
This link is to a awesome academic article proving beyond a shadow of doubt that there was an inn on the Jericho road at the location of the Good Samaritan Museum. The inn likely was formerly Herod's palace at this site. Here's the link ...
https://www.jstor.org/stable/j.ctt1x76gr7.5?seq=7
Shown below are two more excellent scholarly sites (free access) and their corresponding articles on the parable of the Good Samaritan. Once again, these are awesome sites to save for future reference.
HolyLandSite.com - https://www.holylandsite.com/inn-of-the-good-samaritan
BibleWalks.com -https://www.biblewalks.com/goodsamaritaninn/
In one of my many classes I taught on the Jewish parables of our Jewish Rabbi, Yeshua. One parable I focused on was the parable of the Good Samaritan. Here's a link to the complete chapter from the class book.
Link - https://www.dropbox.com/home/2020...2021%20POD%20AND%20VID%20CASTS?preview=Parables2..GoodNeighbor.pdf
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?
What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In lesson 4 we will focus on two terms. The first is "HEAVENS" and the next is "LIVING CREATURES." We will study these terms in Hebrew and find that our modern ideas are again challenged once we understand what the terms mean in Hebrew and what the Bible says and not what men say. However, as we do focus on hearing the Torah on its own terms, and not on man's view, our understanding of God, who He is, and ourselves is deepened, clarified and enhanced.
So, will the Hebrew help us understand where does God abide? Does He abide in “heaven?” Or, why is it that in Hebrew animals and mankind are called “living creatures?” On top of that how can the Hebrew word translated as “living creatures” also be translated as soul?
What is going on? So come and join us and study. As part of this study check out one of the lessons I did on the series on the Lord's prayer. It focuses on the phrase, "who art in heaven," in the Lord's prayer. This study will enhance what you learn here in lesson 4 on Genesis.
Link - https://youtu.be/KGO4kVc-wxc?si=zgAvY6xQUkklOWqk
In Jesus’ day study of the Bible was the highest form of worship! Check out the Messianic Rabbi Jason Sobel’s short video which shows that to be a true disciple of Yeshua we need to study – more than read God’s word.
Link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gLtZcq5VGs
To even go deeper to understand what the church is missing today check out this resource to study that in Jesus’ day the study of the very words of God is the highest form of worship.
Link to Dwight Pryor’s audio Bible study – https://www.jcstudies.store/the-highest-form-of-worship/
Link – to Dwight Pryor’s article - https://www.scribd.com/document/52577969/The-Highest-Form-of-Worship
Are you committed to be His devout disciple, the true disciple of Yeshua? Then come and study besides reading His beloved Word.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?
What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
LESSON 51 PART 2
Link to part 1 - listen before you listen to part 2
https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/genesis-51-part1-exod-2122-fetus-is-human/
Again and again in the Hebrew Scriptures, the Old Testament, God is showing that revenge, retribution, and payback is HIS and not up to us. See Deut. 32:35, Lev. 19:18, or Psm. 94:1-2 or Isa. 35:4 and Rom. 12:19 or Heb. 10:30 and many other verses. That is why Samson showed himself to be less than a Bible hero when Samson asked God to help him to have revenge on the Philistines …
Then Samson called to the LORD and said, "O Lord GOD, please remember me and please strengthen me just this time, O God, that I may at once be avenged (H5358 נָקַם nâqam – revenge for oneself or to punish or avenge) of the Philistines for my two eyes." Jdg 16:28
Samson wants revenge. He wants payback. From the Bible again and again we see this is not a characteristic of one of His heroes or heroines. Samson is a lesson of what we are not to be as we walk our walk with the Lord.
God’s updated version of “Eye for an Eye and Tooth for a Tooth,” is that litigation for a loss due to an injury, is allowed and legal, but, it must not come against His foundational laws and commandments of His covenant people. These foundational laws are the primary duty to love God and serve Him (Exod. 20:1-7 and Deut. 6:4-9) and to love one’s neighbor as himself (Lev. 19:18). This was commonly understood in Jesus’ day as it was in the days of Moses and David and Hezekiah. But, God Himself when He was here, Jesus, said these two commandments are not basic nor are they the foundational laws of the covenant but they are THE GREATEST OF ALL THE COMMANDMENTS. The fulfillment of the Torah is love – loving the Lord and our neighbor. Paul teaches this as well as the rabbis. Paul said it in Gal. 5:14 and he is doing nothing more than what rabbis were also teaching in his day. So, it seems that God sees the court and litigation as the last resort when someone purposely hurts us.
In the Mishna (Jewish law books written after the Temple was destroyed in 70 a.d.) it shows the Jewish understanding of what God intended goes far beyond the simple lex talionis – the "law of retaliation" or an eye for eye …
"If someone wounds his fellow, he becomes liable to compensate the injured party for five different aspects of the injury: damage, pain, healing, loss of time from work, and insult.
"In the case of damage, here is an example of how restitution is determined. Suppose someone blinded someone else's eye, cut off his hand or broke his leg. They value the injured person as if he were a slave for sale in the market, and they appraise his value before the injury and now.
"Here is an example of determining the compensation for pain. Suppose someone burns another with a skewer or nail, even if only on his fingernail, where it doesn't actually produce a wound. They determine how much a man of his position would be willing to be paid to suffer that amount of pain.
"For healing the indemnity is determined in this way. If someone hit another person, he must pay all the expenses of healing him. If he develops ulcers, then if they come about in consequence of the blow, he is liable; but if not, he is not liable. If the wound heals, reopens, heals and reopens again, he is liable for all the expenses. But once it has healed thoroughly, he does not remain liable to pay the expenses of healing him.
"The value of time lost is estimated in this way. They consider what he would earn if he were a watchman over a cucumber field [a job requiring no special skills], for he has already been paid for the loss of his hand or foot. [In practice, this means they determine what kind of work he will be fit for when he fully recovers and evaluate the time lost by this standard.]
"For insult the compensation is determined entirely in accordance with the social status of both the one who caused the indignity and the one who suffered it. If someone insults a person who is naked, blind or asleep, he is liable. But if a sleeping person causes an insult, he is not liable. Someone who falls from a roof and causes injury and insult at the same time is liable for the injury but not for the insult,... because one should not be held responsible for an indignity one did not intend to cause." (Bava Kama 8:1)
I want to thank David Stern the scholar who came out with “The Jewish New Testament Commentary.” He was the one who showed me the statements in the Mishna as we just read in the previous.
Dr. Craig Keener wrote “The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament.” His comments related to the historical context of Jesus’ words regarding and “eye for an eye” are helpful as we see that Jesus was in this case teaching ideas and concepts that man rabbis of His day did as well. Just consider …
Mat_5:38. The “eye for an eye” and “tooth for a tooth” are part of the widespread ancient Near Eastern law of retaliation. In Israel and other cultures, this principle was enforced by a court and refers to legalized vengeance; personal vengeance was never accepted in the (the Torah) law of Moses, except as a concession for a relative’s murder (Num_35:18-21). The Old Testament (better to call them the Hebrew Scriptures) did not permit personal vengeance; David, a great warrior, recognized this principle (1Sa_25:33; 1Sa_26:10-11).
Mat_5:39. The blow on the right cheek was the most grievous insult possible in the ancient world (apart from inflicting serious physical harm), and in many cultures was listed alongside the “eye for an eye” laws; both Jewish and Roman law permitted prosecution for this offense. A prophet might endure such ill treatment (1Ki_22:24; Isa_50:6).
Mat_5:40. The poorest people of the Empire (e.g., most peasants in Egypt) had only an inner and outer garment, and the theft of a cloak would lead to legal recourse. Although conditions in first-century Palestine were not quite that bad, this verse could indicate divestiture of all one’s possessions, even (hyperbolically) one’s clothes, to avoid a legal dispute affecting only oneself. Jesus gives this advice in spite of the fact that, under Jewish law, a legal case to regain one’s cloak would have been foolproof: a creditor could not take a poor person’s outer cloak, which might serve as one’s only blanket at night as well as a coat (Exo_22:26-27).
Mat_5:41. Roman soldiers had the legal right to impress the labor, work animal or substance of local residents (cf. Mar_15:21). Although impressment may not have happened often in Galilee, it happened elsewhere, and the fact that it could happen would be enough to raise the eyebrows of Jesus’ hearers at this example of nonresistance and even loving service to the oppressor.
Finally, I wanted to share the awesome article from the Christian scholarly website, “Got Questions,: and the article on “Eye for an Eye.” Here’s the article (accessed July 2024 at https://www.gotquestions.org/eye-for-an-eye.html) …
The concept of “an eye for eye,” sometimes called jus talionis or lex talionis, is part of the Mosaic Law used in the Israelites’ justice system. The principle is that the punishment must fit the crime and there should be a just penalty for evil actions: “If there is serious injury, you are to take life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, bruise for bruise” (Exodus 21:23–25). Justice should be equitable; excessive harshness and excessive leniency should be avoided.
We have no indication that the law of “an eye for an eye” was followed literally; there is never a biblical account of an Israelite being maimed as a result of this law. Also, before this particular law was given, God had already established a judicial system to hear cases and determine penalties (Exodus 18:13–26)—a system that would be unnecessary if God had intended a literal “eye for an eye” penalty. Although capital crimes were repaid with execution in ancient Israel, on the basis of multiple witnesses (Deuteronomy 17:6), most other crimes were repaid with payment in goods—if you injured a man’s hand so that he could not work, you compensated that man for his lost wages.
Besides Exodus 21, the law of “an eye for an eye” is mentioned twice in the Old Testament (Leviticus 24:20; Deuteronomy 19:21). Each time, the phrase is used in the context of a case being judged before a civil authority such as a judge. “An eye for an eye” was thus intended to be a guiding principle for lawgivers and judges; it was never to be used to justify vigilantism or settling grievances personally.
In the New Testament, it seems the Pharisees and scribes had taken the “eye for an eye” principle and applied it to everyday personal relationships. They taught that seeking personal revenge was acceptable. If someone punched you, you could punch him back; if someone insulted you, he was fair game for your insults. The religious leaders of Jesus’ day ignored the judicial basis of the giving of that law.
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus counters the common teaching of personal retaliation: “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you . . .” (Matthew 5:38–39). Jesus then proceeds to reveal God’s heart concerning interpersonal relationships: “Do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you” (Matthew 5:39–42).
In giving this “new” command, Jesus is not nullifying the Old Testament law (Matthew 5:17). Rather, He is separating the responsibility of the government (to punish evildoers justly) from the responsibility we all have on a personal level before God to love our enemies. We should not seek retribution for personal slights. We are to ignore personal insults (the meaning of “turn the other cheek”). Christians are to be willing to give more of their material goods, time, and labor than required, even if the demands upon us are unjust. We should loan to those who want to borrow, love our enemies, and pray for those who persecute us (verses 43–48). Enforcing “an eye for an eye” is the magistrate’s job; forgiving our enemies is ours. We see this played out today every time a victim stands up in court to publicly forgive a convicted criminal—the forgiveness is personal and real, but the judge still justly demands that the sentence be carried out.
Jesus’ limiting of the “eye for an eye” principle in no way prohibits self-defense or the forceful protection of the innocent from harm. The actions of duly appointed agents of the government, such as police officers and the military, to protect citizens and preserve the peace are not in question. Jesus’ command to turn the other cheek applies to personal relationships, not judicial policy. The principle of “an eye for an eye” is meant as a judicial policy, not as a rule for interpersonal relationships. The believer in Christ is guided by Jesus’ words to forgive. The Christian is radically different from those who follow the natural inclination to respond in kind.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?
What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
This lesson will focus on Gen. 1:1-5. We will address the question, "What is this light that God created on day one?" Is it related to Einstein's theory or what some Creation Science scholars call the Big Bang? Or is it something else? Might it be related to Yeshua the Messiah? It says God created light on DAY one. Was it 24 hours? The Hebrew word translated into English as "day" is the word YOM. How long is a YOM? 24 hours? What is the picture God is painting? Finally, we will study an amazing correlation between the 1st book of the Bible and the last, the book of Revelation.
Genesis 1 deals with God creating a new heaven and a new earth. Then we read in Rev. 21:1 "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth passed away, and there is no longer any sea." Both deal with a new heaven and a new earth. Both books deal with a beginning. Is there more? Just wait and see!!
What is most important Bible verse? What Bible verse should be ranked number one in God's Word? Can you guess? A recognized scholar and a man devoted to the God of Abraham, Dennis Prager, has a cool audio lesson where Dennis brings up his view. He is a devout religious Jew but his Torah teaching is meant for both religious Jews of Judaism and religious Christians. Here is the link - Dennis Prager - Prager University - The Most Important Verse in the Bible - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9BqWdu1BnBQ
Hey! Who is this guy, John Ferret? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Where dies it say exactly in the Bible that the unborn are human? Where does it say precisely that the fetus is human, a person? Certainly there are verses that imply this to be true. I use them myself when arguing the case against abortion. But, I came across this verse, Exodus 21:22, and from the Hebrew and Hebrew grammar we will see that the Bible is clear, the Bible is precise, it is not implying anything but stating fact and that is
THE FETUS IS HUMAN
This verse is not about abortion but it relates to abortion. It helps us see that according to God's law the fetus has legal standing in the same was as the mother.
I indicated in this podcast about several links I'd provide that will only enhance your study. Here they are ...
This link is from a superb website called "Stand To Reason." It goes into the Hebrew of Exod. 21:22 and supports the view that the fetus in the womb is a human being.
https://www.str.org/w/what-exodus-21-22-says-about-abortion From "HumanJourney.org" we study an excellent article that addresses the mistranslation of the Septuagint as related to this verse that has mislead many to say the Bible says the fetus is not fully human. Remember, the Septuagint is the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible and the Septuagint is found with many mistranslations. https://humanjourney.org.uk/articles/exodus-21-and-abortion/ The last link if from "GotQuestions.org" and again shows this verse is uniquely special in the entire Bible including the New Testament. All three of these articles plus the podcast itself provide an awesome argument according to God's own law that the treatment of the fetus is subject to God's legal statements. https://www.gotquestions.org/Exodus-21-22-23-abortion.html Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?
What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In lesson 2 we continue to lay the foundation for this in depth study of the first five books of the Bible, commonly referred to as the TORAH (which does NOT mean LAW but TEACHING). In this lesson we ask if there are no dinosaurs in the Bible (and there is NO mention of them in the Bible in Hebrew) then does that help us grasp what the Torah is and is not? Here's a link to a Jewish scholar and his teaching on why dinosaurs are not mentioned in the bible - click here to watch Dr. Hugh Ross, a credible scientist and astrophysicist discuss the question about dinosaurs and the Bible. He is awesome.
Here's the link for part 1 –
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtEDmwxNE6s&t=0s
And here’s the link for part 2 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iraI4NWQSRs
Some Jewish and Christian scholars say that Gen. 1:21 is talking about large fish. It can't be large fish - the Hebrew taken to the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Old Testament) uses the phrase in Greek to describe the great evil dragon in the book of Revelation who is Satan. Satan is NOT a big fish. Once again how can translators so misinterpret the text of scripture and not check how the phrase in Gen. 1:21 is used throughout the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament that I like to title, "The Messianic Writings?" And lastly, this session gets into the 5 purposes of this series, "The Gospel According to Moses." We approach this study with the focus of archaeology, history, geography, customs, culture, and the languages of the ancient Middle East.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
This is the 1st lesson in the Torah series for Christians on Genesis. This lesson provides the main goals of this unique Bible study. The emphasis is on the Bible in its historical context; it focuses on archaeology, geography, history, and the ancient culture and customs and even the languages of the Middle East.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?
What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In this Bible study lesson we focus on Exod. 21:3-21. Once again we come to the issue of slavery in the Bible. As I mentioned we studied this in depth in lesson 49 parts 1 and 2. I promised I’d give you the links to these two critically important podcasts. Here they are …
Lesson 49 part 1 – https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/exodus-49-part-1-exod-211-2-god-against-slavery-kidnapping/
Lesson 49 part 2 - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/exodus-49-part-2-exod-211-2-love-your-non-hebrew-slave-as-yourself/
I also mentioned a couple of awesome videos for you to consider that relate to slavery. The first – 5 minute long - is done by Candice Owen, the famous conservative commentator. The second by Dennis Prager. His – only 5 minutes as well - is on the 8th commandment, “Do Not Steal.” Once you get into the video you will see how dramatically this commandment is related to slavery.
Candice Own video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NO_wmixXBdE
Dennis Prager video on commandment 8 - https://www.prageru.com/video/do-not-steal
Once again in this lesson I give two examples of why Bible study is critical for any true disciple of our Lord Jesus. Do you do Bible reading? Are you reading through the Bible in a year? Are you following the schedule using the One Year Bible? Great! Don’t stop. It is an act of “continuing in His word” as Jesus said and if we do this something happens. Just look …
"If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free." (Joh 8:31-32)
But, if you just read the Bible we are in danger of missing the truth that the Lord is trying to teach us. He spoke in Hebrew and to an audience 2000 years ago. We need to get at what they understood and heard so as to recapture the original meaning of the very words of God. Christians prior to the Civil War read the Bible in English. They did not read it in Hebrew nor did they study it in its historical context. They made a terrible translation error in that they said black people were less that human. If this is true, then the Bible and God’s laws do not pertain to them. As a result they kidnapped black people from Africa and sold them as slaves. This was directly opposed to God’s word. They did not study the word in Hebrew or in its cultural context. If they did they’d understand that what they did was beyond terrible. The problem is. Few today are trained in seminaries in Biblical Hebrew or how to take the Greek and take it back to the Hebrew or are trained in understanding the Bible in its historical context. As we will see in lesson 50 you are not going to get understanding of the very words of God unless you study along with reading. We need both and we need both to escape, perhaps, the mistranslations and incorrect application of the very words of God in our day.
There is an excellent article at a good academic and scholarly site for Christians entitled, GOTQUESTIONS.ORG. It explains the concept of us being Bond Slaves of Jesus. What I like about this article is this Christian scholarly website shows to understand a bond slave we need to understand and study the Hebrew of Exodus 21. Here’s the link to the article that will add to you understanding of the very words of God.
Link - https://www.gotquestions.org/bondservant.html#:~:text=Throughout%20the%20New%20Testament%2C%20the%20word%20bondservant%2C,metaphorically%20to%20someone%20absolutely%20devoted%20to%20Jesus.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?
What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
THE STORY OF JOSEPH - lesson 21
"I'M IN GOD'S PLACE"
Joseph - the prototype of Jesus
As I mentioned in the podcast I am giving you links to study Egyptian mummification and links on the Book of the Dead. Here are the links …
1) Article from the Smithsonian on Egyptian Mummification - https://www.si.edu/spotlight/ancient-egypt/mummies
2) A short but excellent video overviewing Egyptian “salvation” from the Scroll of the Dead -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1yv_MXNYbAo
3) Article on the Book of the Dead - https://www.touregypt.net/featurestories/bod.htm
One thing you’ll learn is certain body parts are put in special jars as the person in mummified and before burial. The jars are called CANOPIC JARS and you can see a picture of them below (image is royalty free from Wikimedia).
An Egyptian god is assigned to each. Plus each god and each jar has another guardian god – like a guardian angel! Shown below is a short article related to the jars and these gods accessible at Wikipedia.
In this final chapter of Genesis and the final chapter on the saga of Joseph, we come again to Joseph’s words that testify of Jesus, our Lord, our Savior, the Messiah (the Christ) and He who is God Himself. We’ve shown that the Lord set up Joseph as a paradigm of Jesus. Though I have provided these links before I will again provide them for you. This will only enhance your study of this concept of Joseph as a Paradigm of Jesus.
The first is a short video that is a great introduction to this topic. Here's the link ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQKadh0fVCo
The second resource is an article at the excellent website "Hebrew4Christians." The article goes deeper into the connections between Joseph and Jesus providing over 60 indisputable connections solidly based upon scripture and not opinion or speculation. Here's link to the article ... https://hebrew4christians.com/Articles/Mashiach_ben_Yosef/mashiach_ben_yosef.html
A third resource you must have access to is a scholarly paper written by my graduate studies advisor, Dr. Ron Mosely. In his paper Dr. Mosely discusses Joseph as a prototype of the suffering Messiah just like David is a prototype of the conquering Messiah - https://www.academia.edu/3796976/Twice_Rejected_Mashiach_Ben_Joseph
The final link is to Netivyah (The Way of the Lord) ministries in Jerusalem. This is a Messianic Jewish ministry founded by Joseph Shulam, an amazing Jewish scholar who helps us reconnect to our Jewish roots of our faith. This link is to a book written by one of their resident scholars, Elhanan ben Avraham, "Moshiach ben Yosef (Messiah the Son Of Joseph)". I highly recommend you get this book and all the books you can buy from this ministry - https://netivyah.org/product/mashiach-ben-yoseph/
And thus we conclude our study in the book of Genesis. A cool tradition is when Jews come to the end of the study of the book of Torah they say a specific phrase. You can see it in the picture below.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?
What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
THE STORY OF JOSEPH - lesson 20
Messiah and Judah
Joseph - the prototype of Jesus
In Genesis 49 Jacob knows he is about to die. He gathers his sons together at his bedside. He then begins predicting the future even unto הימים באחרית or BayAchahreet HaYahmeem or the End of Days or the End Times. This is an awesome lesson and we will “see” our Lord Jesus so clear in this chapter. We will also see that the RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD and the AFTERLIFE is in the Torah.
Some say Jacob in this chapter is prophesying. But prediction is not prophesying or being a prophet. So many in the church use the word prophet and to prophecy to imply one who tells the future. This is Biblically wrong. Let’s get back to the Hebrew and learn from Jewish scholars as Judaism 101. Here’s the link to learn more - https://www.jewfaq.org/prophets
In the predictions for the future Jacob address the tribe o Dan. We did not go deeper into the tribe of Dan and its future but I said I’d give you some links so you can study the tribe of Dan in a little more depth.
The first link is an article by the great Bible teacher, historian, and scholar, Lois Tverberg. She wrote a short article on the tribe of Dan - https://engediresourcecenter.com/2015/07/03/idolatry-of-dan/
A second link is to the excellent Bible study sire, “Got Questions?” Here’s an excellent article on the tribe of Dan - https://www.gotquestions.org/tribe-of-Dan.html
Finally, we come to grips with the phrase in the Torah “he breathed his last, died, was gathered to his people, and was buried.” This is a phrase that is connected to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, Aaron, and David. What does it mean? What does the phrase “gathered to his people mean?” You’ll be amazed. Here are tow links to an article and a video by Dennis Prager. These resources are awesome. You will see that since the time of Abraham Israel believed in the resurrection of the dead and the afterlife.
Article – https://momentmag.com/afterlife-not-an-afterthought/
Video (5 minutes) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=covUnyZGVaQ
Also, check out my research paper on Biblical dating. This article is a required study piece for yourself. You'll be amazed at how archaeology and history show the true date of the Exodus and the dating of the saga of Joseph. It is a critical article to study in depth and with care. Here's the link - https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/vnwmvpa19tys8ud2d8i8r/DATING-EDWIN-THIELE-ASSYRIAN-LIST-TO-JOSEPH-IN-EGYPT-...-edited-and-updated.pdf?rlkey=gytmbmhsubmvurppnlrhpcqak&st=7kngcxut&dl=0
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?
What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
THE STORY OF JOSEPH - lesson 19
Joseph is the First Born of the Father
Joseph - the prototype of Jesus
We now focus on Genesis 48 and in this lesson Jacob blesses Joseph’s son, Ephraim and Manasseh. This then gives Joseph a double portion. In other words it is as if Joseph becomes the first born when in fact Reuben was the first born. This has so much to do with us as disciples of Yeshua. We will find that the saga of Joseph is not only for modern day Israelites but for us GOYEEM, non-Jews who are followers of Messiah Jesus.
I mentioned a lesson I did that deals with the probable meaning of the name of God, El Shaddai or on Hebrew אֵל שַׁדַּי. Does it mean God Almighty? Is there proof? Or can it mean something more extraordinary. Here’s the lessons that goes into this topic in depth = https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/the-gospel-according-to-moses-genesis-lesson-25-gen-121-3-all-families-will-be-blessed/
There is another set of 5 minute Bible study videos that will add to your study in this podcast. They are called Five Small Stones #’s 11-14. This shows the amazing connections between Joseph, the Savior of the World, and Jesus, the Savior of the World, and the city of Shechem. Here's the links …
Five Small Stones #11 – https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/five-small-stones-11-gen-121-geography-and-the-bible-shechem/
Five Small Stones #12 – https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/five-small-stones-episode-12-abraham-and-jacob-in-shechem-gen-126-3318/
Five Small Stones #13 – https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/five-small-stones-episode-13-josh-241-geography-and-the-bible-joshua-israel/
Five Small Stones #14 - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/five-small-stones-episode-14-john-41-6-the-blessing-to-the-nations/
Also, check out my research paper on Biblical dating. This article is a must have and a required study piece for yourself. You'll be amazed at how archaeology and history show the true date of the Exodus and the dating of the saga of Joseph. It is a critical article to study in depth and with care. Here's the link - https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/vnwmvpa19tys8ud2d8i8r/DATING-EDWIN-THIELE-ASSYRIAN-LIST-TO-JOSEPH-IN-EGYPT-...-edited-and-updated.pdf?rlkey=gytmbmhsubmvurppnlrhpcqak&st=7kngcxut&dl=0
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?
What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
THE STORY OF JOSEPH - lesson 18
ASSIMILATION INTO EGYPT
HEBREWS BOUGHT IN TO THE WRONG STORY
Joseph - the prototype of Jesus
This lesson is a critical part of the saga of Joseph. We ask why did Joseph and his brothers stay in Egypt after the death of Jacob? This becomes apparent in Genesis 48-50 but the answer seems to be in Genesis 47 in one verse. It seems that Joseph and especially the rest of the family becomes blinded by the glory of Egypt, its riches and power and its awesome gods. If this is the case this set up the rest of the story that we will see in the book of Exodus.
In this lesson we will see how the attitude of the Egyptians as being superior not only of the Hebrews but to any non-Egyptian results in two laws Yahvay, the Lord, the God of Abraham, institutes as a way of living for the Hebrews. And us as well. We will see how all this relates to Jesus and what He said as the 2nd greatest commandment in the Torah, His instruction which is to love one's neighbor as yourself. I mentioned an awesome journal from the scholars at Netivyah ministries in Jerusalem. The journal is ...
You will find this an awesome resource and their journals are free. You don't want to not read this magazine. It gets to the issue of Jesus' adding to the law in Lev. 19:34 to love the stranger, the foreigner even it they are a pagan, even if they are an enemy. Jesus states clearly we are to love our enemy. But how? Get the journal at the link below.
Link - https://netivyah.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/TFZ-50-FOR-PRINT-1.pdf
I also urge you to also go to the store at Netivyah and check out all the ENGLISH MAGAZINES on many Bible topics for your learning and study. They are all free. Here's the link to all their free journals in their store - https://netivyah.org/library/
I also mentioned my research paper on Biblical dating. This article is also a must have and a required study piece for yourself. You'll be amazed at how archaeology and history show the true date of the Exodus and the dating of the saga of Joseph. It is a critical article to study in depth and with care. Here's the link - https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/vnwmvpa19tys8ud2d8i8r/DATING-EDWIN-THIELE-ASSYRIAN-LIST-TO-JOSEPH-IN-EGYPT-...-edited-and-updated.pdf?rlkey=gytmbmhsubmvurppnlrhpcqak&st=7kngcxut&dl=0
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?
What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
THE STORY OF JOSEPH - lesson 17
ALL ISRAEL BEFORE JOSEPH
144,000 BEFORE JESUS
Joseph - the prototype of Jesus
This can't be! No way! Is there a possible connection in the saga of Joseph where his father Jacob comes to Egypt - all Israel before Joseph - and the events in Revelation 7? Could be? Just as "all" Israel (Jacob's name) and his entire family is delivered from the terrible 7 years of famine) so too will ALL Israel be delivered and saved in the days of the return of Messiah. The saga of Joseph is so timely and has so much for us today in the 21st century.
In this podcast, as in part 1, I provide four valuable links to study the amazing connections between Joseph and Jesus. The first is a short video that is a great introduction to this topic. Here's the link ...
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQKadh0fVCo
The second resource is an article at the excellent website "Hebrew4Christians." The article goes deeper into the connections between Joseph and Jesus providing over 60 indisputable connections solidly based upon scripture and not opinion or speculation. Here's link to the article ...
https://hebrew4christians.com/Articles/Mashiach_ben_Yosef/mashiach_ben_yosef.html
A third resource you must have access to is a scholarly paper written by my graduate studies advisor, Dr. Ron Mosely. In his paper Dr. Mosely discusses Joseph as a prototype of the the suffering Messiah just like David is a prototype of the conquering Messiah - https://www.academia.edu/3796976/Twice_Rejected_Mashiach_Ben_Joseph
The final link is to Netivyah (The Way of the Lord) ministries in Jerusalem. This is a Messianic Jewish ministry founded by Joseph Shulam, an amazing Jewish scholar who helps us reconnect to our Jewish roots of our faith. This link is to a book written by one of their resident scholars, Elhanan ben Avraham, "Moshiach ben Yosef (Messiah the Son Of Joseph)". I highly recommend you get this book and all the books you can buy from this ministry - https://netivyah.org/product/mashiach-ben-yoseph/
Another thing we studied in part 1 and it carries over into this podcast is what is a disciple? A disciple in Jesus' day is one who follows a rabbi and wants more than anything else to be just like the rabbi; a disciple wants to live a life so that they are a reflection of their rabbi. Here's the links I promised that are the vidcasts (videos) I did on the topic of Disciples and Apostles. The video is in two parts.
Part1 - Disciples and Apostles - https://lightofmenorah.podbean./e/truth-nugget-28-lesson-2-part-1-disciples-and-apostles/
Part2 - Disciples and Apostles - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/truth-nugget-28-lesson-2-part-2-disciples-and-apostles/
Here's a link to an excellent article on what a disciple was in the 1st century by Ray Vander Laan - https://www.thattheworldmayknow.com/rabbi-and-talmidim
Ray has also done audio sessions on the concept of disciples of a rabbi in Jesus' day. I will link you to the audio library and it is easy to slide down to the studies regarding disciples. Check out the "Age of a Disciple" and the sessions entitled "Disciples Parts 1, 2, and 3" and the audio sessions "The Dust of the Rabbi." Here's the link - https://www.thattheworldmayknow.com/category/Audio
In this podcast I again mention that Bible study is a requirement for us as true followers of Jesus. Matter of fact there is a renowned Messianic Gentile scholar, Dwight Pryor, who suggests that a church must provide Bible study and classes in order to obey Jesus to make disciples. As one studies what it really means to be a disciple of our rabbi, our Lord and Savior, our Yeshua, we find that as our "rabbi" was sent to teach so too His disciples are called to be sent by Him to teach. But, to teach means we need to learn and thus we need to do Bible study. That's for all believers in the church and just a select few.
What is interesting, for those of us focused on the Jewish roots of our faith and our Hebrew heritage, is that the study of the Bible in Jesus' day was considered the highest form of worship! Not prayer. Not speaking in tongues. Not singing and music. No. None of these. The study of God's word by the young and the old in Jesus' day was considered at the top of the list for true followers of the Lord. Below are two links to two excellent articles discussing this. The first is written by Dwight Pryor - a highly credible and well known Gentile Messianic Christian Bible scholar and the second is written by Professor WA Liebenberg, a Messianic Jewish scholar at the Hebraic Roots Teaching Institute in Pretoria South Africa. These are a must read to understand that to be true disciples of Adonai yeshua requires Bible study and not just Bible reading. Check them out at these links ...
Dwight Pryor's article - https://www.scribd.com/document/52577969/The-Highest-Form-of-Worship
WA Liebenberg's article - https://se1490ea64a00a596.jimcontent.com/download/version/1685034709/module/12434580160/name/The%20Highest%20Form%20of%20Worship%20Is%20Studying%20The%20Word.pdf
As we studied we encountered the contradiction between Gen. 46:27 where it says 70 came to Egypt and in Acts 7:14 it says 75. I mentioned I would provide you with the text of the Septuagint for Genesis 46 to show it was changed! The rabbis changed it. Shown below is Genesis 46 of the Septuagint.
Finally, I mentioned the links to study THE JEWISH RAPTURE. These are videos of my personal study of the rapture and how I found it to be already in the Hebrew Scriptures, the Old Testament. It is a totally Jewish concept and since we are "grafted in" as joint heirs with Israel it includes all of us as disciples of Adonai Yeshua. Here's the link to the videos.
Video 1 - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/truth-nuggets-27-episode-1-part-1-the-rapture-restored/
Video 2 - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/truth-nuggets-27-episode-1-part-2-historical-context-of-matt-2429-31/
Video 3 - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/truth-nuggets-27-the-rapture-restored-lesson-2-part-1/
Video 4 - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/truth-nuggets-27-the-rapture-restored-episode-2-part-2/
Video 5 - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/truth-nuggets-27-rapture-restored-episode-2-part-3/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
THE STORY OF JOSEPH - lesson 14
BETWEEN A ROCK AND A HARD PLACE
Joseph - the prototype of Jesus
In part one of lesson 95 we studied the Word of the Lord, the way and the truth and the life, and saw that the saga of Joseph is God's Torah, His instruction not law, for Jacob and his family then, for the 1st ones to read this saga of Joseph, the Hebrews about ready to cross the Jordan and enter God's promised land then, for the talmideem of Yeshua, the disiples of Jesus then and for us NOW, today, in the 21st century as we face unbelievable troubles and dangers and difficulties. What else is there? What else does God want us to learn from the story of Joseph?
In part 2 we continue our intense Torah study in the book of Genesis. In part 2 we begin to see a reason why, perhaps, why Jesus teaches us what the two greatest commandments of the books of Moses are. We learn of the Egyptian culture and their view of themselves as superior over all other peoples of the earth. We learn this attitude of feeling better than anyone else is a common bad characteristic of all cultures over all time. But, Jesus helps us understand two fundamental laws of Torah in Lev. 19:16 and Lev. 19:34. Jesus, the Lord, our God, helps us understand who are neighbor really is. So, ready to study? Ready to see that what Jesus taught is true in John 5:39? Ready to see how God teaches us now in the 21st century from the Torah, scripture 3400 years old?
Check out the video (link below) that introduces us to this amazing connection between Joseph and Jesus. What is so awesome is God inspired Moses to write about Joseph 3400 years ago. Little did Moses know how his writing would help us today to see how God predicted His ultimate SAVIOR OF THE WORLD from the story of Joseph as the prototype. Here's the link to the video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQKadh0fVCo
Also, here's link to an awesome article at the website, "Hebrew4Christians." I linked you to the pages at this website that also give even more awesome connections between Yosef and Yeshua.
Link - https://hebrew4christians.com/Articles/Mashiach_ben_Yosef/mashiach_ben_yosef.html
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
THE STORY OF JOSEPH - lesson 13
BETWEEN A ROCK AND A HARD PLACE
Joseph - the prototype of Jesus
As we continue to study the saga of Joseph we see things become difficult for Jacob. He is given the choice of death by starvation or to trust Judah, his 4th born son of Leah, allow him to take Benjamin, the youngest son and only surviving son of Rachel, to Egypt and hopefully get Simon back, get food, and, most importantly, bring back Benjamin. One might say Jacob is between a rock and a hard place. In this lesson we will hear Jacob say that he falls into the hands of El Shaddai, the Almighty God.
The only Bible Jesus had and Paul was the Hebrew Scriptures (a.k.a. the Old Testament). In part 1 of lesson 95 we begin to see that this saga of Joseph and now his brothers and his dad, seems to be a way that Adonai teaches us about Himself. For many of us we know the "rest of the story" as did Jesus' talmideem (disciples) and later Paul. What this story teaches us about the Lord is so totally applicable to today. It is so totally applicable to the terrible situation Israel is in - the whole world turning against Israel and blaming them as being the terrorists and not Hamas. But, in this Torah lesson, in the saga of Joseph, we can see how Paul, a Torah scholar in hi sown right, came up with ...
And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. (Rom 8:28)
The only "Bible" Paul had was the Hebrew Scriptures. Torah, the first five books of the Bible, were the foundational books of the Bible. It seems clear to me that Paul's writings in all his letters was Torah based or based upon the teachings of his Rabbi, Messiah Yeshua, the Jesus the Christ. So, come join us as to study how this saga of Joseph was a powerful teaching (torah) from the Lord for all Israel coming out of Egypt, all Israel in Jesus' day, all Israel today, and for us.
Check out the video (link below) that introduces us to this amazing connection between Joseph and Jesus. What is so awesome is God inspired Moses to write about Joseph 3400 years ago. Little did Moses know how his writing would help us today to see how God predicted His ultimate SAVIOR OF THE WORLD from the story of Joseph as the prototype. Here's the link to the video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQKadh0fVCo
Also, here's link to an awesome article at the website, "Hebrew4Christians." I linked you to the pages at this website that also give even more awesome connections between Yosef and Yeshua.
Link - https://hebrew4christians.com/Articles/Mashiach_ben_Yosef/mashiach_ben_yosef.html
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
So when one simply reads the Bible there are verses we read and we don't understand the explosive meaning and connections there are. We definitely should read the Bible. No doubt about it. But, along with simple reading of the word is to study His word. It is one reason I am doing these podcasts - we are going deeper into our understanding and expanding our knowledge of the Lord's word.
In this podcast, lesson 82, we will study two such scriptures. It'll be amazing to you as it was to me to learn what is really going on. And again, it is NOT my opinion but as you will see THE VERY WORDS OF GOD as our "bread of life." One of these verses takes us from Genesis to Revelation. It shows us that those who are like "anti-Christ" are found in an amazing "string" of Bible characters all the way back to the days of Jacob and Esau.
Hold on - you are about to take an awesome ride from the camp of Isaac to facing the GREAT RED DRAGON. Ready?
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
LESSON 48 PART 2
In part 2 of lesson 48 we learn that the Lord implies to all Israel that they need to be in His word; they need to remember His awesomeness, His power, His absolute greatness, and that He is God and God alone, the only God who does and will judge and punish sin. He suggests this by saying His people need to remember what the Lord showed them and what they SAW at Sinai. God said this was to prove Himself so that Israel would remember and thus be prevented from sin and turning from the Lord.
So, for us, this seems to suggest we need to emphasize His written word. We too need to remember His awesomeness, His power, His absolute greatness, and that He is God and God alone, the only God who does and will judge and punish sin. We need His written word to shows us the goal, the target, the whole purpose of His written word, and that is JESUS!
But, you are not going to understand this if you just read the Bible. There is a Bible you can buy called the ONE YEAR BIBLE. Link to the One Year Bible - https://www.amazon.com/One-Year-Bible-NLT/dp/1414302045 and here's a link to the website where you can simply download the reading plan and use your own Bible - https://oneyearbibleonline.com/?version=51&startmmdd=0101 The reading schedule gives you scriptures to read daily. If you follow the schedule you will read the entire Bible in one year. This is an awesome tool.
But, just reading the Bible will NOT answer the big questions. In the Bible there is NO scripture that says Jesus is God. You will not find it anywhere. Also, since all they had was the Hebrew Scriptures in Jesus' day, the Old Testament, one asks what is the GOSPEL? What is the god news? By reading the Bible only, again which is a very good thing, it will not give you the deeper and more expanded idea of what the gospel really is.
It is like asking where in the Bible does is say abortion is a sin? It doesn't! No where. But it does!! God said this ...
"When the LORD your God cuts off before you the nations which you are going in to dispossess, and you dispossess them and dwell in their land, beware that you are not ensnared to follow them, after they are destroyed before you, and that you do not inquire after their gods, saying, 'How do these nations serve their gods, that I also may do likewise?' "You shall not behave thus toward the LORD your God, for every abominable act which the LORD hates they have done for their gods; for they even burn their sons and daughters in the fire to their gods. "Whatever I command you, you shall be careful to do; you shall not add to nor take away from it. (Deu 12:29-32)
God said don't do what the pagans do! What did the pagans do? They practiced sex outside of marriage. It was part of their temple rituals to their gods. God said don't do what they do. So, God just condemned pre-marital sex! Also, the pagans practiced abortion. Yes, many pagan nations did child sacrifice but I am specifically talking about abortion. The Ancient Greeks said abortion was legal. Rome as well. And an ancient Egyptian papyrus was found dated to the 15th century B.C., at least 100 years before the Exodus, which was a medical book. In that medical book it specified specific techniques for abortion. Imagine, the Hebrews were in Egypt for all those years in a culture that practiced abortion. And, what did God say? He said don't do what these pagans do. They did abortion. So, God is saying abortion is a major sin, an abomination. You'll only get this from Bible study and not just reading the Bible. We need both. But you can't have one without the other.
Here are two links to read about that Egyptian papyrus and that Egypt did practice abortion prior to Moses' day.
Link 1 - https://muvs.org/en/topics/termination-of-pregnancy/abortion-in-antiquity-en/
Link 2 - https://ancientegyptianfacts.com/ancient-egypt-abortion.html#google_vignette
Everyone in those days had gods and rituals and temples and a worldview. Pagan religion had altars to sacrifice to their gods. The Lord, Adonai (His name is יהוה probably pronounced YAH VAY not YAH WAY since there is no "W" sound in Hebrew) probably knew that His people would want to also use altars as part of their praise and thanksgiving to Adonai. So, the Lord gives specific directions on ho altars to be used for Him are to be built. Amazingly archaeology gives us insights into why the Lord gave these detailed specific instructions. Once again it has to do with all the pagan nations around the Hebrews. Once again God is saying DON'T BE LIKE THEM and separate yourselves from them and what they do. God's instructions for altars separates His people from the ancient pagans. But, that is for us as well. Paul is only being a good Torah teacher when he wrote ...
Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma. But immorality or any impurity or greed must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints; and there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. For this you know with certainty, that no immoral or impure person or covetous man, who is an idolater, has an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not be partakers with them; (Eph 5:1-7)
Just as the Lord instructed His chosen so does the Lord instruct us, His chosen in Yeshua, in Messiah, in Christ, not to do what the pagans do. It is right there in front of us. And you do not learn this by simply reading the Bible. Study. Study. Study. May His word be absorbed by you BODY and MIND and SPIRIT since God's word is His bread of life as we read in Deut. 8:3.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Lesson 48 Part 1
Adonai, the Lord, His name is probably pronounced Yahvay (there is NO "W" sound in Hebrew), has just completed giving the words of His Covenant (see Exod. 34:28) in Hebrew עֲשֶׂרֶת הַדְּבָרִים Aseret HaDevarim or the Ten Statements or Words. We know them as the Ten Commandments (NOTE: the phrase the Ten Commandments is not in the Bible only עֲשֶׂרֶת הַדְּבָרִים Aseret HaDevarim). It was an amazing event but the Lord now makes known to all of us that this event was beyond amazing, beyond miraculous. It was incomprehensible. It was beyond understanding. There is more to this event at Mt. Sinai than we imagined. I t had to do to what they saw the day God came to give them the words of the covenant. What did they see?
More than that God shows us that the giving of the Ten Commandments is tied to His feast we read about in Acts 2. It seems related to what the Hebrews SAW when God gave them the Ten Commandments. In Acts 2 all the religious Jews, the Gentile converts to Judaism called proselytes, and other Gentiles who believed in the Jewish God and were called God Fearers, were celebrating God’s “appointed time” of Shavuot or the Feast of Weeks. In Greek it is named Pentecost. It is so awesome to see that the words God inspired Moses to write in Exod. 20:18-26 and the words God inspired Luke to write in Acts 2 suggest a connection between Sinai and Jerusalem. We missed of course since few of us have had Bible studies that focus on the Jewish culture in 1446 B.C., in 30 A.D. or studies that help us understand the Greek and the Hebrew. But, the good news is that the Lord will not let this continue. Today He is moving to bring us tools and teachers to take us deeper into His word.
In this lesson I mentioned a number of articles that sadly discuss that many Christian churches today neglect to teach the word of God. It is one this to read the Bible but quite another to understand it. An example is you read the Bible and you believe that Jesus is God. OK, the Bible never uses the phrase, “Jesus is God” or Jesus never says “I am God.” OK, so you read the Bible. Big deal. You now need a teacher to help get at how the Bible shows that Jesus is God. So, one just can’t read the Bible. It needs to be taught. Both are critical for all Christians. And yet, many churches have given up on teaching the Bible. Check out the superb articles at the links below.
https://www.gotquestions.org/purpose-church.html
https://albertmohler.com/2014/05/14/why-so-many-churches-hear-so-little-of-the-bible
https://billmuehlenberg.com/2015/02/17/whatever-happened-to-teaching-in-the-churches/
https://versebyverseministry.org/bible-answers/my-church-doesnt-teach-the-bible
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
This is the first time God, Yahvay, in His TORAH ( תּוֹרָה - TORAH - instruction not law) through the words of Jacob where the Lord tells us to get rid of the pagan gods. This focus of the Lord is found again and again in His Word. For instance the Lord tells Moses and all Israel that He is not coming to destroy Egypt and its people and the Pharaoh. NO! He says ...
"For I will go through the land of Egypt on that night, and will strike down all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgments--I am the LORD." (Exo 12:12)
He will execute judgments against the gods of Egypt. Later the Lord says that the gods the Hebrews took on in Egypt were not gods but שׁדים SHEDEEM H7700, 7736- wicked & destructive spirits that are called "demons" in Greek. We find this in Deuteronomy 32.
"They sacrificed to demons (שׁדים SHEDEEM H7700, 7736) who were not God, To gods whom they have not known, New gods who came lately, Whom your fathers did not dread." (Deu 32:17)
As one studies the Ten Commandments we read ...
Then God spoke all these words, saying, "I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. You shall have no other gods before Me. You shall not make for yourself an idol, or any likeness of what is in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the water under the earth." (Exo 20:1-4)
Over and over again the Lord speaks against the pagan gods, idols, pagan practices, and idolatry. Just like in the Ten Commandments we are to remember who God really is and then not to have any other gods before Him. But, there are NO other gods. The Bible is very clear on this.
"See now that I, I am He, And there is no god besides Me; It is I who put to death and give life. I have wounded and it is I who heal, And there is no one who can deliver from My hand." (Deu 32:39)
"Do not tremble and do not be afraid; Have I not long since announced it to you and declared it? And you are My witnesses. Is there any God besides Me, Or is there any other Rock? I know of none." (Isa 44:8)
"I am the LORD, and there is no other; Besides Me there is no God. I will gird you, though you have not known Me; ... " (Isa 45:5)
So all the pagan gods of Egypt, the Canaanites, Greece, and Rome are not gods by שׁדים SHEDEEM!! These are evil spiritual entities - not devils, not fallen angels, but SHEDEEM. God through Jacob is now telling us to put away the שׁדים SHEDEEM among us.
But have we? It seems that the USA has turned against God in a big way. Our "house" was a Christian house but it has been "cleaned out" of God, His Word, His Salvation, our Jesus. Jesus warns against this.
"Now when the unclean spirit goes out of a man, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, and does not find it. Then it says, 'I will return to my house from which I came'; and when it comes, it finds it unoccupied, swept, and put in order. Then it goes and takes along with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there; and the last state of that man becomes worse than the first. That is the way it will also be with this evil generation." (Mat 12:43-45)
The spiritual "house" of the USA is cleaned out. We've taken God out of our lives, our society, our government, our schools, and even many of our churches (few teach God's word our "bread of life") Thus, it seems clear that by THE VERY WORDS OF GOD that we should see THE RETURN OF THE GODS by Jesus' own words. And these "gods" seemingly have returned. They are not gods but the שׁדים SHEDEEM.
Check out the interviews with the Messianic Rabbi Jonathan Cahn parts 1 and 2.
In these interviews Jonathan talks about this idea that the pagan gods have returned to America and it explains so much of the chaos, evil, death, hate, and destruction around us. שׁדים SHEDEEM has a Hebrew root word that means "destruction." Here's the links to these videos ...
Part 1 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NagR4QAyfQA
Part 2 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_axTQ5Xquvg
More than this however is his commentary on the most popular movie of all time worldwide, "Barbie." This is no "child's movie;" it is an evil adult attempt to indoctrinate young girls to the anti God culture. It is a teaching tool for girls to reject womanhood, motherhood, and having children in Godly marriage. It is as if an ancient evil destructive goddess has returned, a SHEDEEM, and is symbolized in this doll called Barbie. It is as if Barbie is an idol of Ishtar whose picture is below.
The picture above is of the ancient goddess, Ishtar, and is royalty free and accessible at Wikimedia.
Check out the awesome and disturbing commentary on the "Barbie" movie by Rabbi Jonathan Cahn. .
The Mystery Of Barbie, Ishtar, and Smashed Babies! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKp-A6BBg-E So in God's TORAH we see over and over again the Lord's focus against pagan gods, idols and idolatry. But, there are no other gods. Yes. That is true. But not the שׁדים SHEDEEM that were behind the worship of all the pagan gods. God knows this is REAL and this REALITY is of the utmost danger to us.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In this lesson we focus in on Gen. 34:1-7 and the story of Jacob’s daughter, Dinah (pronounced Dee nah). The story unfolds at the ancient city of Shechem. We are going to see some amazing connections to Jesus as these verses seem to testify of Jesus and especially His teachings. We must remember that Jesus said …
Joh 5:39 “You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me …”
It can be shown that it is likely He said this between 24-30 A.D. and the only Bible they had then was Jesus’ Bible, the Hebrew Scriptures or the Old Testament. So for His disciples then it was clear that Jesus as a rabbi of the 1st century, one who like other rabbis taught how to live out the Torah, live out the life God wants, had only the Hebrew scripture as the basis for His teachings. Thus, it is not surprising that the Dinah story is connected to Rabbi Jesus and His teachings to them then and us now.
These connections of Jesus to the ancient city of Shechem is not just connected to Genesis 34. This was covered in depth in a series of short 5 minute Bible study videos entitled, “Five Small Stones.” I urge you to access these lessons and study the Bible in its geographical context and see the amazing way connections Abraham to Jesus and it all relates to events at Shechem. Here’s the links to the videos …
Five Small Stones Episode 11 – https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/five-small-stones-11-gen-121-geography-and-the-bible-shechem/
Five Small Stones Episode 12 – https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/five-small-stones-episode-12-abraham-and-jacob-in-shechem-gen-126-3318/
Five Small Stones Episode 13 – https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/five-small-stones-episode-13-josh-241-geography-and-the-bible-joshua-israel/
Five Small Stones Episode 14 – https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/five-small-stones-episode-14-john-41-6-the-blessing-to-the-nations/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
EPISODE 2 PART 3
Some say there is a rapture and are "Pre-Trib." Others say the same thing and are "Mid-Trib" and others "Post-Trib." Others say there is NO RAPTURE. But, regardless of your position the verses below clearly show something is up; something is coming.
Mat 24:29-31 "But immediately after the tribulation of those days THE SUN WILL BE DARKENED, AND THE MOON WILL NOT GIVE ITS LIGHT, AND THE STARS WILL FALL from the sky, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. (30) "And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the SON OF MAN COMING ON THE CLOUDS OF THE SKY with power and great glory. (31) "And He will send forth His angels with A GREAT TRUMPET and THEY WILL GATHER TOGETHER His elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other.
1Th 4:16-17 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. (17) Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord.
Are we missing something? Is there a viable realistic alternative understanding to all this? Not one of the so-called "end-times" expert today, not one of the "RAPTURISTS" you hear on the radio or YouTube, ever teach these verses in their HISTORICAL CONTEXT. Not one! But, if you do, this results in a restoring the understanding of the Rapture to its Biblical foundation - THE INGATHERING OF ISRAEL, as predicted by Adonai Himself in Torah. This is so amazing. It takes the mess created by the "end-times" experts of today and brings order and understanding.
We strongly urge you to listen to the previous videos in this series. They build one upon the other. If you listen to this one without listening to Episode 1 parts 1 & 2 and Episode 2 parts 1 & 2, the study will not be complete or understood in its entirety. For the previous videos do the following ...
1) Go to the website - www.LightofMenorah.org
2) Click on OTHER RESOURCES in the upper right at the home page.
3) Then click on TRUTH NUGGETS 27 - THE RAPTURE RESTORED
4) "Slide down" with your mouse and you'll find all five videos and associated links. This will provide a detailed study foundation to go deeper into this topic.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
EPISODE 2 PART 2
It is highly recommended that if you have not watched the previous videos that you do so before watching this 4th lesson. Each builds on what was taught in previous lessons. To easily access the entire series go to the website and once there click on the words OTHER RESOURCES on top of the page on the right side. A small menu will open and then click on TRUTH NUGGETS: THE RAPTURE RESTORED. This will open up the series page - just slide down with your "mouse." There you'll find links to all the lessons and many other links for your continued study. Below is the link to the website ...
www.LightofMenorah.org
Many know the famous verse ...
For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. (1Th 4:16-17)
This seems to be the primary verse end times experts use to justify the "rapture." It is in the letter that Paul wrote in Corinth in and around 50 A.D. to the Messianic congregation in Thessalonica. When Paul wrote this letter there were NO other books of the New Testament available; none of them had been written yet. There are other very critical facts about this book that few Christians even consider. In this vidcast (video podcast) we will now study this letter in its historical and its ancient cultural context. Once we do the facts suggest that the so called rapture, as we understand it today, may not be what we think. Matter of fact it suggests that the rapture should be renamed to the INGATHERING of Yahvay's elect, His chosen, at the last blast of the Great Shofar. The rabbis teach that the righteous will then be gathered and then (in Hebrew יקחך YEET-KA-CHE-KA H3947 ) brought or captured or seized by the Lord back to the Promised Land in the clouds. They get this from ...
“Who are these that fly like a cloud, and like doves to their windows? For the coastlands shall hope for me, the ships of Tarshish first, to bring your children from afar, their silver and gold with them, for the name of the Lord your God and for the Holy One of Israel.” Isaiah 60:8-9
This is from Deut. 30:1-4 where God predicts this amazing event that seems similar to the event as written by Paul in 1 Thess. 4:16-17. Interesting. Paul is a Torah expert. It seems he is only trying to teaching the Gentile Romans and Greeks who worshiped Yahvay in the Jewish synagogue about what Jews knew as part of their culture; they knew of the good news that the Lord will gather them again, all Israel, and they will live in peace and safety forever.
Therefore thus says the Lord GOD, "Now I will restore the fortunes of Jacob and have mercy on the whole house of Israel; and I will be jealous for My holy name. They will forget their disgrace and all their treachery which they perpetrated against Me, when they live securely on their own land with no one to make them afraid. When I bring them back from the peoples and gather them from the lands of their enemies, then I shall be sanctified through them in the sight of the many nations. Then they will know that I am the LORD their God because I made them go into exile among the nations, and then gathered them again to their own land; and I will leave none of them there any longer. I will not hide My face from them any longer, for I will have poured out My Spirit on the house of Israel," declares the Lord GOD. (Eze 39:25-29)
So come and join us in this interesting study. Come and join us to consider a realistic and viable alternative as we restore the Rapture to its Jewish foundation, its Torah foundation, to the Ingathering of the Elect (Chosen) of the Lord.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link -
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Lesson 2 Part 1
In this video Bible study we go back 1000’s of years to investigate a prediction made by the Lord through Moses near the place called Shittim (pronounced SHH TEEM).
It was the camping place of the Hebrews just before Moses' death and then the crossing of the Jordan. This prediction seems to connect to Jesus’ prediction that He, Jesus, the Messiah (known as the “son of man” when He was here the first time) would gather His elect or His “chosen” in Matt. 24:29-31. Could it be that the “rapture,” that is discussed and debated today, has been named incorrectly? Is it possible that the rapture is really the ingathering of Israel as predicted in Deut. 30:1-5, Isa. 11:12, 27:13, 56:8 (Gentiles gathered?), 66:20 and Ezek. 20:34, 20:41, 37:12, 37:21 ? When we study the Bible in tis historical context, when we focus on the words in the ancient Greek and Hebrew, when we consider the ancient Jewish culture of Jesus’ day and Paul’s day, it seems probable that the ingathering of Israel as predicted by the Lord, יהוה Yahvay, is what is mistakenly called the “rapture” in the 21st century.
This begins to make sense in that God over and over again says He will gather His chosen people, Israel, in the end times into the land He promised Abraham. It is the land Israel has never ever controlled. Solomon was close in his rule and reign. Once Israel is “gathered in” they will live securely in peace forever as the chosen of יהוה Yahvay, Adonai, the Lord. Paul teaches that in the end times all Israel will be saved. ALL. Paul does not separate non Christian religious Jews from Jewish or Gentile Christians. Paul even teaches we Gentile believers are “grafted in” to Israel and become joint inheritors of the promises of God. Paul does not separate the non Christian Jews from Christians. He says under the Lord’s inspiration, we are one family. So does the Lord. Jesus says in John 10 that He is the Good Shepherd and His Jewish disciples know this means Jesus is claiming to be the Shepherd of Israel as found in Ezekiel 34. The Hebrew Scriptures was all they had. But Jesus said there is another flock He will bring as well implying us Gentiles. And Jesus will make them one flock with one Shepherd. But, “rapturists” especially pre-tribbers, condemn all Israel to the horrors of the Tribulation but Christian Jews and Gentiles will be spared. These views go against the very words of God. This is man’s view and not God’s.
So, come join us. Come and consider the real viable alternative view of the “rapture” as we restore it to its Jewish roots. We restore the “rapture” to the INGATHERING OF THE LORD’S ELECT.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
There are four goals in this series, "The Gospel According to Moses: Genesis." The first is to see how scripture testifies of Jesus that He taught in John 5:39. At the time He taught this all they had was the Hebrew Scriptures. So, how does the Torah testify of Jesus? The second goal is how did the Hebrews just coming out of Egypt understand the "Books of Moses." The third goal is to understand how Jesus' first disciples understand the words of Torah. The fourth is how do the words of Torah make sense for us today. In this podcast we will see how Jacob's coming to Canaan to the ancient city of Shechem testifies of Jesus, promised by God for us through Abraham in Gen. 12:1-3. We will also see how this portion of the text of His Word helps us understand the Exodus! Once again the Lord puts real facts and history in His book to again and again validate the veracity of His word and the truth of the events in the Bible.
With respect to helping us understand the Exodus, here are several links for your further study. These links will provide more study material on the location of Mt. Sinai.
DR. WOOD (Associates for Biblical Research) – THOUGHTS ON MT. SINAI
https://biblearchaeology.org/research/chronological-categories/exodus-era/4217-thoughts-on-jebel-allawz-as-the-location-of-mount-sinai
SINAI WHERE?? Map study of the Exodus
https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/exodus-39-exod-141-4-where-s-mt-sinai/
Another topic is how does Jacob coming to Canaan with his two wives, eleven sons, and one daughter to the ancient city of Shechem testify of Jesus? The "Books of Moses" must relate to Jesus since the Lord inspired Paul to write ...
For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. Rom 10:4
If one knows the Greek it is better understood as ...
For Messiah is the one to whom the TORAH (God' instruction) points to for righteousness to everyone who believes. Rom 10:4
From the first verse of the Bible (Gen. 1:1) to the last (Rev. 22:21) it is all about He who is to come to be the promise through Abraham for all of us, Jew and Gentile. So, we should not be surprised that the events we will study in this podcast at the ancient city of Shechem testify of Jesus from Abraham, to Jacob, to Joshua, and to Jesus. Shown below are links to further resources for your more complete study.
SHECHEM AND GOD’S PROMISES - chapter from Rev. Ferret's class book related to the ancient city of Shechem - https://www.dropbox.com/s/v126xqgaev4jp1j/SHECHEM%20AND%20GODS%20PROMISES.pdf?dl=0
LINKS TO 5 MINUTE VIDEOS … Geography and the Bible - Shechem and Jesus
VID 1 – https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/five-small-stones-11-gen-121-geography-and-the-bible-shechem/
VID 2 – https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/five-small-stones-episode-12-abraham-and-jacob-in-shechem-gen-126-3318/
VID 3 – https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/five-small-stones-episode-13-josh-241-geography-and-the-bible-joshua-israel/
VID 4 - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/five-small-stones-episode-14-john-41-6-the-blessing-to-the-nations/
Lastly, I mentioned in this podcast that the word JEHOVAH is a mistranslation of the name of God. It crept into the church in the Middle Ages as a mistake by Catholic monks translated the Hebrew Bible into Latin. Shown below are links to scholarly resources for your further study.
GOD'S NAME IS NOT JEHOVAH
https://alwaysbeready.com/gods-name-jehovah-by-charlie-campbell/
https://www.jerusalemperspective.com/2610/
https://www.jerusalemperspective.com/4373/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
We now focus on the 10th Commandment …
"You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet your neighbor's wife or his male servant or his female servant or his ox or his donkey or anything that belongs to your neighbor." (Exo 20:17)
Some say “covet” is the same as lust or craving or desire. It can’t be since there is no law against craving, desire, or lust. In this podcast Bible study we will find that COVET (the Hebrew is תחמד or Tachmod) is an obsessive mental focus on getting by whatever means something that belongs to one’s neighbor. COVET or coveting is “forbidden thought” that if followed through results in an evil action. There are two operatives here – thought and action. When you take this definition it is seemingly the cause for murder, committing adultery, stealing and lying. Jesus seems to teach this when He said …
"For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, slanders. "These are the things which defile the man; but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile the man." (Mat 15:19-20)
In Jesus’ day the word “heart” was used as a picture to represent the mind. Jesus is saying our mind gives rise to “evil thoughts” and this seems to connect to COVET as an obsessive mental focus on getting by whatever means what we are craving or lusting.
I ended this session on the Ten Commandments by suggesting you watch the 5-minute Bible study video episode 9 in the series, “Five Small Stones.” It is entitled “It Is Finished.” This video is a teaching about the “missing piece” in the Sinai Covenant that is recognized by Jewish non-Christian scholars, the writer of the book of Hebrews, and Paul. The link to this video is …
https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/five-small-stones-episode-9-rom-104-it-is-finished/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link -https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Is it always a sin to lie? Is there such a thing as "white lies?" Maybe the Lord only meant in the 9th Commandment not to lie as a witness in a court of law. And I can't be a false witness to my neighbor. Who is my neighbor? Only people in my neighborhood?
Lots of questions come up on all the עשׂרת הדברים - Asereet HaDevareem - the ten statements of the Lord. Come and join us as we study the 9th commandment. We'll see that this commandment is the basis for a good and just society - probably what the Lord intended right from the "get go."
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Truth Nuggets Lesson 27
Episode 1 Part 1
Links and session notes are found under the picture for Part 2.
Truth Nuggets Lesson 27
Episode 1 Part 2
Have you read Matt. 24:29-31. No? Here it is …
“But immediately after the tribulation of those days THE SUN WILL BE DARKENED, AND THE MOON WILL NOT GIVE ITS LIGHT, AND THE STARS WILL FALL from the sky, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the SON OF MAN COMING ON THE CLOUDS OF THE SKY with power and great glory. And He will send forth His angels with A GREAT TRUMPET and THEY WILL GATHER TOGETHER His elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other.” (Mat 24:29-31)
There are so-called end-times experts, probably devout Christians, who say this verse is all about the Pre-Trib Rapture. Here, supposedly according to the opinions of the end-times expert, Jesus will come and rescue the Church from the terrible times, the horrible times, of God’s wrath falling upon all the pagan nations before Jesus returns. But, you can also find end-times experts who argue that Matt. 24:29-31 is Jesus teaching on the Mid-Trib Rapture. The Church will need to go through at least half the terrible times before being “caught up” or “raptured” and taken to Jesus to be with Him forever. But, on top of that you can also find end-times experts, again probably devout sincere Christians, who say Jesus is teaching that the Rapture will not come till after the Tribulation period. So, we see there are three groups of end-times experts and three separate views and interpretations on this one verse. So, who do you believe?
In these video lessons we will again study the Bible in its historical context. It is clear not one, no one, none of the end-times experts even addresses the Bible in its historical context nor do with focus on the Hebrew culture and language of Jesus' day. We will go back 2000 years ago to try and grasp what Jesus’ disciples, devout Jewish believers, understood when Jesus spoke the words in Matt. 24:29-31. But this time we will focus on the fact that in Jesus’ day there was NO New Testament. All they had was “Jesus’ Bible” or the Hebrew Scriptures that is called today the Old Testament.
Also, in Jesus’ day Jewish eschatology, Jewish end-times theology, was discussed and understood from the very words of God in Torah and the Prophets. So, in these lessons we need to get to what Jewish eschatology was and the fact that Jesus NEVER came against it.
We will also focus on the Hebrew. Why? There is solid strong evidence that Jesus’ everyday language was Hebrew. I mentioned some links I’d provide so you can study this further. Here they are …
LINK 1 – the book “Understanding the Difficult Words of Jesus”
https://www.amazon.com/Understanding-Difficult-Words-Jesus-Perspective/dp/B098XVRHDN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3J4OZ9IUQZ8BF&keywords=Understanding+the+Difficult+Words+of+Jesus%3A+New+Insights+From+a+Hebrew+Perspective&qid=1684698362&sprefix=understanding+the+difficult+words+of+jesus+new+insights+from+a+hebrew+perspective%2Caps%2C735&sr=8-1
LINK 2 - Skip Moen’s article on the Hebraic foundation of the Gospels
https://skipmoen.com/subscribe/hebrew/the-hebrew-gospels/
LINK 3 – scholarly article found at “Hebrew 4 Christians”
https://www.hebrew4christians.com/Articles/Jesus_Hebrew/jesus_hebrew.html
As one studies this Rapture Controversy it is wise to consider becoming familiar with Jewish end-times views or Jewish Eschatology. One will find great connections between what the Church believes and it source in Second Temple Judaism, the days of Jesus. Here’s a link to an article that will give you the listener an introduction …
LINK – Jewish Eschatology
https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/eschatology
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link -https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Five Small Stones - Episode 17 Part 2
(Here's the link for part 1. Please watch part 1 to get the full understanding of the amazing events in Luke 5:1-11.
LINK for part 1 - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/five-small-stones-episode-17-part-1-galilee-let-down-your-nets/ )
In part 1 we visited the Cove of the Parables. It is the likely place Jesus went out in Peter's boat and spoke to the crowds. You can see a picture below of the location of the cove to the ancient city of Capernuam.
I recommend a cool video that that even adds more to our understanding of the cove of the parables. A sound experiment is actually done in the video to show that this place is a place where one can speak to many many people.
Link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qR9jeFDuXOE
After Jesus spoke to the crowds we read the following ...
When He had finished speaking, He said to Simon, "Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch." Simon answered and said, "Master, we worked hard all night and caught nothing, but I will do as You say and let down the nets." When they had done this, they enclosed a great quantity of fish, and their nets began to break; so they signaled to their partners in the other boat for them to come and help them. And they came and filled both of the boats, so that they began to sink. (Luk 5:4-7)
This is what many of us term the "miraculous catch." It isn't miraculous! No way.
It is beyond miraculous.
It is unexplainable and beyond imagination. So what is the real story behind all this? What is going on? What does this do to our understanding of the events and Jesus? Who is Jesus?
Come and join us as we dig deeper into the story and its historical context.
(NOTE - I mentioned a Jewish archaeologist in this video. His name is Mendel Nun. To access more of his work and studies here's the link - https://www.jerusalemperspective.com/author/mendel-nun/)
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
FIVE SMALL STONES EPISODE 17 PART 1
There's only one location and only one on the shores of the Sea of Galilee where Jesus could get into a boat and talk to a huge crowd. On top of that Jesus then "thanks" Peter for helping Him by giving Peter a catch of fish that is beyond imagination.
What is the real story? What's behind all this? Is there more to this story? Yes. We did not live then. Most of us don't fish with nets as Peter did. Once again we need to put the Bible into its historical context and hear what they heard and see what they saw and understand how they understood and then our understanding of the text of God's word is enhanced, expanded and deepen. Come and join us and let's head out to the northern shores of the Sea of Galilee; come let us go and let the Lord teach us who He is and what He is like.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Lesson 47 Episode 15 Part 2
מאום תגנב לא
Exod. 20:15 - Lo Tegnev Me’um
Do not steal anything
Lesson 47 Episode 15 Par 1 - no stealing!!
The 8th Commandment - Lo Tegenev - לא תגנב - No Stealing. But it doesn't specify what NOT to steal! God did this by design. Why? Join us in the next podcast on the Ten Commandments and let the Lord take us deeper into understanding His Covenant foundation.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
This is part 4 of episode 14 on the 7th Commandment - Exo 20:13 לא תרצח Lo Tenaf - NO ADULTERY. We focus on the question of where did God ever say that extra-marital sex is a sin? Is forbidden? What about abortion? In Jesus' day these are sins. But, it is not specified in the Torah. Check it out at this link ... https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/premarital-sex
So, where is it in the Bible? These sins were part of the pagan cultures in the ancient Near East. It is interesting to note that God DID condemn these acts as sin and it is IN the Torah. Where? Come and join us as we see that the 7th Commandment is only for adultery and does NOT include all sexual immorality. But God does teach that extramarital sex, abortion, infanticide, pedophilia, etc. is what He hates, they are abominations, and are sins. It's there. How did we miss it? Once again it has to do with putting the Bible into its historical context.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
This episode provides a clear review of episodes 1 and 2. We see that in the Ancient Near East adultery was a serious crime and it wasn't primarily about the sex. If not about the sex outside of marriage, what's the serious nature of adultery back in the 15th century BC?
Secondly, no other pagan culture had their god or gods commanding that adultery was forbidden. It was a man made set of laws. But, for Israel, God, our God, the only God commands that adultery is forbidden and part of His covenant with His people. This means that Israel will be a testimony to the world of how to live according to the Lord.
Third, why is it that a married woman in an affair with a man not her husband will be executed and her lover? What about a married man in an affair with a woman not his wife? This is not fair. This is not equitable. What's going on?
Fourth, many Christian theologians say the 7th commandment is a commandment forbidding ALL sexual impurity. HUH? The Bible doesn't say that. On top of that God said not to add or subtract from His word. This is what many Christian theologians have. As an example, sex outside of marriage is a sin in Judaism and Christianity. But the Bible has no statement saying it is. What's going on? Where does the Lord teach that pre-marital sex, homosexuality, pedophilia, bestiality, and prostitution are sins? He does! But how? Where?
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
God executes Rachel. She stole the family gods. The orthodox rabbis say God delayed executing her until Benjamin was born. But, we never read this in the Bible. Matter of fact when we truly analyze it that God would execute Rachel makes no sense and even contradicts the Bible. Come and join us in this study. By putting the Bible back into its historical context we are blessed by His Spirit to have our knowledge of His word expanded and our faith enriched.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Is Jesus God? He never said He was - not in so many words. But the Jews 2000 years ago understood truth from action and not words. Is Jesus God? You bet and He shows it by action and not words. His actions 2000 years ago at the Sea of Galilee proved He was God, the only God.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
(NOTE: the "play" button is above the picture above - click on the white triangle in the orange circle)
This video introduces a major podcast video lesson on the book of Esther and Purim. How is Jesus related to the book of Esther? He said in John 5:39 ...
"You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me;" (Joh 5:39)
So how does the book of Esther testify of Jesus? It is all dependent upon one word in the entire book. This will amaze you and for Christians the feast of Purim becomes special for us as well. Watch the video to access the video podcast Bible study lesson.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
The "play" button is just above this picture - the orange circle with the white triangle.
In part 1 we learned that laws against adultery were common in the pagan cultures of the ancient near east. The laws against adultery were not related to the sexual sin per se, but that this was detrimental to the preservation of the family and the community. It adultery was looked upon as an attack against the the foundation of a good society. So we should not be surprised that we see this in God's TORAH, His instruction to His people. It is part of the commandments 6-10 all seemingly to deal with our relationship with our fellow man, the community, the society. The uniqueness in all this is that this law if coming from Yahvay, the Lord God, and not some law of man or the state. It is as if God is showing us the truth in the fact that adultery is a "great sin" against the community and the family.
In part 2 we went deeper. We find that the Hebrews coming out of Egypt were the first ones to hear ...
For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother, and be joined to his wife; and they shall become one flesh. And the man and his wife were both naked and were not ashamed. (Gen 2:24-25)
The Lord is saying that marriage is between one man and one woman. The text does not say that a man shall leave his parents and cling to his wife or wives. The text is clear that he and his one wife become one flesh. He is teaching that He instituted marriage; it is part of His creation. Thus, adultery is a "great sin" against our community, against the family, and against God Himself since He "created" marriage and the family as being made up of one man and one woman.
Now we come to part 3. We will delve into the word of the Lord that says a man having an affair with a married woman both he and she will be executed! God declares adultery between a man and a married woman not his wife as a capital offense. Huh? What about a woman having an affair with a married man not her husband? What's the difference? What might this be all about?
Also in part 3 we will expand our study to consider sex between two a man and woman both unmarried. In Judaism and in Christianity is is a major sin. But the Bible has NO law against this. Matter of fact the word "fornication" - understood to be sex outside of marriage - will be shown NOT to be in the Bible. No where does God say that if an unmarried man and an unmarried woman have sex willingly is this act a sin. No where! But it is. How may have this come about? It comes about from THE VERY WORDS OF GOD that address this in an unexpected way.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
The "play" button is just above this picture - the orange circle with the white triangle.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Just a quick review - lessons 1-10 study how Jesus is the first and the last simultaneously. Lessons 11-14 start our study on Biblical geography. First stop was the ancient city of Shechem. Now we start a new series based upon the Sea of Galilee. To access all the videos in this series go to the website. Then click on OTHER RESOURCES. Once that opens click on PODCASTS PLAYLISTS. The list of podcast playlist will be seen be scrolling down. All you need do is then select FIVE SMALL STONE.
Here's the link to the website - www.LightofMenorah.org
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
We now come to the 6th commandment …
“You shall not murder.” (Exo 20:13 NASB)
“Thou shalt not kill.” (Exo 20:13 KJV)
“You shall not murder.” (Exo 20:13 NKJV)
“Thou shalt not murder.” (Exo 20:13 Jewish Bible)
So for 100’s of years many Christians have stated this commandment as not to kill. Many Christians used the King James translation in an argument that Christians must adhere to pacifism and that Jesus was a pacifist. But, the real Hebrew, the precise Hebrew, is not to murder. This verse cannot be used in any argument for pacifism.
As I mentioned in the podcasts here are some awesome links to related article you may find extremely beneficial in your study.
From the website GOTQUESTIONS.ORG is the article, “What is the difference between ‘you shall not murder’ and ‘you shall not kill’”?
https://www.gotquestions.org/you-shall-not-kill-vs-murder.html
From the website GOTQUESTIONS.ORG is the article, “What does the Bible say about self-defense?”
https://www.gotquestions.org/self-defense.html
From the website GOTQUESTIONS.ORG is the article, “What does the Bible say about pacifism?”
https://www.gotquestions.org/Bible-pacifism.html
From Andrew Holt’s article, “’Thou shalt not kill’ vs. ‘Thou shalt not murder.’”
https://apholt.com/2015/03/17/thou-shalt-not-kill-vs-thou-shalt-not-murder/
Etymology of the word “kill”
https://www.etymonline.com/word/kill
In this podcast we are dealing with murder. This is clearly related to abortion. As I indicated in the podcast I would provide a link to the ancient Christian document the Didache (DI DAC HEE). Here’s the link to the complete ancient document.
Link - https://legacyicons.com/content/didache.pdf
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
There is so much of Christmas that can hide the real significance of this season. It is not a HOLIDAY but it is a HOLY DAY. I wonder if הַשָּׂטָן Ha Satan - the adversary or the devil - is the one who did this and thus leading so many away from the chance of knowing the Savior. We almost need to take Christ and take Him OUT of Christmas and restore that which we lost. This video suggests the awesomeness of this event, the birth of Jesus, the Messiah. This video gives a picture of the Light of Messiah that came as John writes of it in John 1:9. It presents a picture that the birth of Jesus takes us from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21. This picture shows us this time of remembrance is a HOLY day and not a holiday. Let's study the Chiasm of the Light.
I mentioned in the video that I would provide scholarly links to study the events and the archaeology of Jesus’ birth from the Associates for Biblical Research. These are a must if you want to come to grips with the reality of His birth and to expand your understanding of the Gospel of the Kingdom.
Link 1 to an article by Dr. Ken Bailey entitled, “The Manger and the Inn.” - https://biblearchaeology.org/new-testament-era-list/2803-the-manger-and-the-inn?highlight=WyJtYW5nZXIiLCJtYW5nZXInIl0=
Link 2 to a video by Gary Byers entitled, “Away in a Manger but Not a Barn.” - Part 1 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YveeRv50lmg
Part 2 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XzRG6jIVGoY Part 3 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3I-YhXcx0qU
Link 3 to an article by Gordon Melish, “There Wasn’t an Inn.” - https://biblearchaeology.org/research/devotionals/3643-there-wasnt-any-inn?highlight=WyJtYW5nZXIiLCJtYW5nZXInIl0=
Link 4 - Joel Kramer's video on the archaeology of Bethlehem - https://sourceflix.com/our-video/born-in-bethlehem/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
The תּוֹרָה TORAH is The Very Word of God. It means INSTRUCTION AND not LAW. God is teaching His chosen treasured possession, Israel. He is instructing them and trying to get Egypt out of Israel. What that means is that those Hebrews who had become enslaved in Egypt had assimilated into the Egyptian pagan culture. This began to happen after Joseph died. So, the Hebrews, all they knew when God came to rescue them, was the pagan religion of Egypt and her gods. Torah then is God's inspired word He commands Moses to write and it is meant for those "first hearers," the Hebrews coming out of Egypt.
As we learn those ancient lessons God was teaching over 3400 years ago, our understanding becomes enhanced and expanded. Once we know what they knew then the word and God's lessons will make sense to us as well. This is true for the story of Jacob. It is true for the entire Torah. In this lesson we find that God wants more out of Jacob and us than simply "head knowledge." The Lord wants us to KNOW Him. But, we will see in the Hebrew that it is KNOWING by living, KNOWING by experience, and KNOWING by interaction with Adonai. The events here in Genesis 31 demonstrate exactly. So, come. Let's go study. Let's learn how Jacob began to KNOW the Lord so that we too will see this is what our Father wants from us right from the get go.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
LESSON 74 GENESIS - AUDIO ONLY
Time to take a break. Time to assess where we’ve been, where we are, and where this is going. We have over 250 podcasts/vidcasts. The main focus has been detailed study of the TORAH for Christians with an emphasis upon studying the word in is historical context. So, after all these lessons where are we and where is this all headed? Amazingly, it is headed for the truth in THE VERY WORDS OF GOD that Yeshua is the ONLY way to the Father. If you do not study the TORAH ad reconnect to our Jewish roots, you could say Jesus is a way back to the Father. But, after this review, after this look back and after this look forward, after seeing the direction of the TORAH we see that the Bible, the VERY WORD OF GOD, unequivocally shows that Jesus is the ONLY way to the Father.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
LESSON 12 PART 2
Join us in lesson 12 part 2. Come and continue to delve into a study of a truly unique commandment of the Lord that He decided was critical for all Israel and us, as true disciples of Adonai Yeshua. Our parents attain a status that no one else in the Bible can attain, ever. It speaks volumes to us of how a good and just and Godly society itself can survive. It focuses on mom and dad.
It is interesting that the is the only commandment with a “reward.” Let’s look at it again.
"Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be prolonged in the land which the LORD your God gives you.
(Exo 20:12)
Is this a reward? Sure seems like it. But, perhaps it is more than a reward for each us if we obey. Perhaps it is a reason to obey this commandment? Perhaps it is the way for preserving a righteous society and a godly nation. When we put this in its historical context it seems like this is what’s going on. God in His TORAH, His teaching, is teaching the world how to preserve and maintain a righteous, Godly, and just society. It seems to make sense.
I also highly recommend the following articles. I provide their links and they will add and enhance your study as we try and figure out how to honor our dads and moms and what this has to do with the good world and a Godly society.
A Lesson from Rome
https://www.thetrumpet.com/5360-a-lesson-from-rome
Does the Lord Require me to Honor Evil Parents?
https://lightfordarktimes.com/2020/04/24/does-the-lord-require-me-to-honor-evil-parents/
Must One Honor an Abusive Parent?
https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/must-one-honor-an-abusive-parent/
Dennis Prager’s Video series on the Ten Commandments
https://www.prageru.com/search?refinementList%5Btags%5D%5B0%5D=10%20Commandments&page=1&configure%5BhitsPerPage%5D=20
You Don’t Have to Love Your Parents (Dennis Prager)
https://www.nationalreview.com/2014/12/you-dont-have-love-your-parents-dennis-prager/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Did you ever stop and ask what does it mean to “honor your parents?” Honor? Does that mean we obey them? If we love our mom and dad is that the same as honoring them? Or something else? On top of that what is this doing here? We’re dealing with an awesome event – the giving of a New Covenant by the Lord to His Chosen Ones at the mountain of God. Just read …
Then the LORD said to Moses, "Write down these words, for in accordance with these words I have made a covenant with you and with Israel." So he was there with the LORD forty days and forty nights; he did not eat bread or drink water. And he wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant, the Ten Commandments. (Exo 34:27-28)
How are our parents connected to this? What’s with this anyway?
Join us in lesson 12 parts 1 & 2. Come and delve into a study of a truly unique commandment of the Lord that He decided was critical for all Israel and us, as true disciples of Adonai Yeshua. Our parents attain a status that no one else in the Bible can attain, ever. It speaks volumes to us of how a good and just and Godly society itself can survive. It focuses on mom and dad.
I also highly recommend the following articles. I provided their links and they will add and enhance your study as we try and figure out how to honor our dads and moms and what this has to do with the good world and a Godly society.
Does the Lord Require me to Honor Evil Parents?
https://lightfordarktimes.com/2020/04/24/does-the-lord-require-me-to-honor-evil-parents/
Must One Honor an Abusive Parent?
https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/must-one-honor-an-abusive-parent/
Dennis Prager’s Video series on the Ten Commandments
https://www.prageru.com/search?refinementList%5Btags%5D%5B0%5D=10%20Commandments&page=1&configure%5BhitsPerPage%5D=20
You Don’t Have to Love Your Parents (Dennis Prager)
https://www.nationalreview.com/2014/12/you-dont-have-love-your-parents-dennis-prager/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Lesson 11 Part 3
The Bible was clearly meant for those the first ones to hear it. Like the Torah. It was meant for the Hebrews coming out of Egypt. The New Testament was written for the first disciples like John and Mark and Matthew and Paul and Mary. And once we understand what the "first hearers" heard and understood, we then an see how it relates to us. God gave them His word so they understood it and passed it down to us.
The Messianic Jewish believers lived in a Jewish culture 2000 years ago and they perhaps saw things and understood things a lot differently than us. So we will again put the Bible in its historical context. Once again we will study His word taking in account the ancient Jewish culture of those first disciples. When we do and study the GREEK and not the English, we find there is a compelling alternative understanding to verses that supposedly suggest Jesus changed everything. Contemporary theologians say that these verses show that Jesus changed the Sabbath from its Biblical practice to the way the "church" does it today. The three verses we will study are shown below taken from the NASB version. We will study these verses in their historical context. When we do the view that Jesus changed, God changed, is seriously challenged.
VERSE 1 - Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I directed the churches of Galatia, so do you also. On the first day of every week each one of you is to put aside and save, as he may prosper, so that no collections be made when I come. When I arrive, whomever you may approve, I will send them with letters to carry your gift to Jerusalem; (1Co 16:1-3)
VERSE 2 - On the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break bread, Paul began talking to them, intending to leave the next day, and he prolonged his message until midnight. There were many lamps in the upper room where we were gathered together. And there was a young man named Eutychus sitting on the window sill, sinking into a deep sleep; and as Paul kept on talking, he was overcome by sleep and fell down from the third floor and was picked up dead. But Paul went down and fell upon him, and after embracing him, he said, "Do not be troubled, for his life is in him." When he had gone back up and had broken the bread and eaten, he talked with them a long while until daybreak, and then left. They took away the boy alive, and were greatly comforted. (Act 20:7-12)
VERSE 3 - I, John, your brother and fellow partaker in the tribulation and kingdom and perseverance which are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like the sound of a trumpet, saying, "Write in a book what you see, and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus and to Smyrna and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to Laodicea." (Rev 1:9-11)
To continue your study on the Sabbath I strongly recommend the following books and resources ... (one's with * are a must)
- Kiesz, John. "A History of the Sabbath and Sunday." The Bible Sabbath Association (January 1, 1983). Free download at this link - http://www.truthontheweb.org/KieszHis...
Nichols, J. T. “The Origin of the Hebrew Sabbath.” The Old and New Testament Student, vol. 12, no. 1, 1891, pp. 36–42. JSTOR, www.jstor.org/stable/3157542
- Hay, Malcolm. "THE ROOTS OF CHRISTIAN ANTI SEMITISM." Available at Amazon.
Dr. Shumel Safrai, “The Jewish People in the First Century: Historical Geography, Political History, Social, Cultural and Religious...Vols. 1 and 2.”
- Bacchiocchi, Samule. "From Sabbath to Sunday." (1977) Rome, Italy. Pontifical Gregorial University Press. Free download at this link - http://www.anym.org/pdf/from_Sabbath_...
Encyclopedia Judaica. 1972. Keter Publishing. Jerusalem:Israel.
"Feasts and the Holidays, the Mo’edim." https://hebrew4christians.com/Holiday...
Flusser, David. "Judaism and the Origins of Christianity." 1988. Magness Press. Jerusalem.
Hayyim, Schauss. "The Jewish Festivals." © 1938
"The Jewish Encyclopedia." www.jewishencyclopedia.com
Levine, Lee. 2005. "The Ancient Synagogue: the First Thousand Years." 2nd Edition. New Haven: Yale University Press.
- Stern, David. Jewish New Testament Commentary. 1996. Jewish New Testament Publications. Clarksfield:Maryland.
Stern, David. The Complete Jewish Bible. 1998. Jewish New Testament
- Wilson, Marvin. Our Father Abraham. 1989. W.B. Eerdman’s. Grand Rapids:MI. Contours of Hebrew Thought.
Finally, here's a link to a chapter of one of my books I did for my classes. The content is based upon the sources above. Link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/qdycam9yad7... A second link is related to Paul meeting in Troas on the FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK. Here's the link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/rmkqxbq18k3...
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Lesson 11 Part 2
The Bible was clearly meant for those the first ones to hear it. Like the Torah. It was meant for the Hebrews coming out of Egypt. The New Testament was written for the first disciples like John and Mark and Matthew and Paul and Mary. And once we understand what the "first hearers" heard and understood, we then an see how it relates to us. God gave them His word so they understood it and passed it down to us.
The Messianic Jewish believers lived in a Jewish culture 2000 years ago and they perhaps saw things and understood things a lot differently than us. So we will again put the Bible in its historical context. Once again we will study His word taking in account the ancient Jewish culture of those first disciples. When we do and study the GREEK and not the English, we find there is a compelling alternative understanding to verses that supposedly suggest Jesus changed everything. Contemporary theologians say that these verses show that Jesus changed the Sabbath from its Biblical practice to the way the "church" does it today. The three verses we will study are shown below taken from the NASB version. We will study these verses in their historical context. When we do the view that Jesus changed, God changed, is seriously challenged.
VERSE 1 - Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I directed the churches of Galatia, so do you also. On the first day of every week each one of you is to put aside and save, as he may prosper, so that no collections be made when I come. When I arrive, whomever you may approve, I will send them with letters to carry your gift to Jerusalem; (1Co 16:1-3)
VERSE 2 - On the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break bread, Paul began talking to them, intending to leave the next day, and he prolonged his message until midnight. There were many lamps in the upper room where we were gathered together. And there was a young man named Eutychus sitting on the window sill, sinking into a deep sleep; and as Paul kept on talking, he was overcome by sleep and fell down from the third floor and was picked up dead. But Paul went down and fell upon him, and after embracing him, he said, "Do not be troubled, for his life is in him." When he had gone back up and had broken the bread and eaten, he talked with them a long while until daybreak, and then left. They took away the boy alive, and were greatly comforted. (Act 20:7-12)
VERSE 3 - I, John, your brother and fellow partaker in the tribulation and kingdom and perseverance which are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like the sound of a trumpet, saying, "Write in a book what you see, and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus and to Smyrna and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to Laodicea." (Rev 1:9-11)
To continue your study on the Sabbath I strongly recommend the following books and resources ... (one's with * are a must)
- Kiesz, John. "A History of the Sabbath and Sunday." The Bible Sabbath Association (January 1, 1983). Free download at this link - http://www.truthontheweb.org/KieszHis...
Nichols, J. T. “The Origin of the Hebrew Sabbath.” The Old and New Testament Student, vol. 12, no. 1, 1891, pp. 36–42. JSTOR, www.jstor.org/stable/3157542
- Hay, Malcolm. "THE ROOTS OF CHRISTIAN ANTI SEMITISM." Available at Amazon.
Dr. Shumel Safrai, “The Jewish People in the First Century: Historical Geography, Political History, Social, Cultural and Religious...Vols. 1 and 2.”
- Bacchiocchi, Samule. "From Sabbath to Sunday." (1977) Rome, Italy. Pontifical Gregorial University Press. Free download at this link - http://www.anym.org/pdf/from_Sabbath_...
Encyclopedia Judaica. 1972. Keter Publishing. Jerusalem:Israel.
"Feasts and the Holidays, the Mo’edim." https://hebrew4christians.com/Holiday...
Flusser, David. "Judaism and the Origins of Christianity." 1988. Magness Press. Jerusalem.
Hayyim, Schauss. "The Jewish Festivals." © 1938
"The Jewish Encyclopedia." www.jewishencyclopedia.com
Levine, Lee. 2005. "The Ancient Synagogue: the First Thousand Years." 2nd Edition. New Haven: Yale University Press.
- Stern, David. Jewish New Testament Commentary. 1996. Jewish New Testament Publications. Clarksfield:Maryland.
Stern, David. The Complete Jewish Bible. 1998. Jewish New Testament
- Wilson, Marvin. Our Father Abraham. 1989. W.B. Eerdman’s. Grand Rapids:MI. Contours of Hebrew Thought.
Finally, here's a link to a chapter of one of my books I did for my classes. The content is based upon the sources above. Link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/qdycam9yad7... A second link is related to Paul meeting in Troas on the FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK. Here's the link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/rmkqxbq18k3...
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Does the Bible, specifically the New Testament, prove that Jesus changed the practices in Second Temple Judaism? Did Jesus do away with the old law, the TORAH, and start a new Sabbath on Sunday? It seems that if you study the New Testament in ENGLISH and separate it from the historical and ancient cultural context, the answer would be yes. However, the Bible was clearly meant for those first disciples like John and Mark and Matthew and Paul and Mary. God gave them His word so they understood it and passed it down to us. So, one might say they are the first audience. But, they are all Jewish, even Luke. There is a strong argument that Luke was Jewish. It isn't conclusive but very strong. Check it out at this link - https://www.levitt.com/essays/luke
Thus, these Jewish believers lived in a Jewish culture 2000 years ago and they perhaps saw things and understood things a lot differently than us. For on thing we have proof that the early church, those first believers, met for the Sabbath on Friday evening to Saturday evening.
(Paul F. Bradshaw and Lawrence A. Hoffman, The Making of Jewish and Christian Worship (Notre Dame, 1991). And,
CHRISTIAN HISTORY, "When did the Christian church switch the Sabbath from Saturday to Sunday?"
Link: https://www.christianitytoday.com/history/search/?query=issue%2037 ELESHA COFFMAN)
In Video 3 we will again put the Bible in its historical context. Once again we will study His word taking in account the ancient Jewish culture of those first disciples, the first Messianic believers. When we do and study the GREEK and not the English, we find there is a compelling alternative understanding to verses that supposedly suggest Jesus changed everything. The three verses we will study are shown below take from the NASB version.
Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I directed the churches of Galatia, so do you also. On the first day of every week each one of you is to put aside and save, as he may prosper, so that no collections be made when I come. When I arrive, whomever you may approve, I will send them with letters to carry your gift to Jerusalem; (1Co 16:1-3)
On the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break bread, Paul began talking to them, intending to leave the next day, and he prolonged his message until midnight. There were many lamps in the upper room where we were gathered together. And there was a young man named Eutychus sitting on the window sill, sinking into a deep sleep; and as Paul kept on talking, he was overcome by sleep and fell down from the third floor and was picked up dead. But Paul went down and fell upon him, and after embracing him, he said, "Do not be troubled, for his life is in him." When he had gone back up and had broken the bread and eaten, he talked with them a long while until daybreak, and then left. They took away the boy alive, and were greatly comforted. (Act 20:7-12)
I, John, your brother and fellow partaker in the tribulation and kingdom and perseverance which are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like the sound of a trumpet, saying, "Write in a book what you see, and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus and to Smyrna and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to Laodicea." (Rev 1:9-11)
This is only a short introduction. It is a deep and expansive subject that can not be completely addressed in a 40 to 60 minutes video. Thus, to continue your study on the Sabbath I strongly recommend the following books and resources ...
Kiesz, John. "A History of the Sabbath and Sunday." The Bible Sabbath Association (January 1, 1983). Free download at this link -
http://www.truthontheweb.org/KieszHistory.htm
Nichols, J. T. “The Origin of the Hebrew Sabbath.” The Old and New Testament Student, vol. 12, no. 1, 1891, pp. 36–42. JSTOR, www.jstor.org/stable/3157542
Hay, Malcolm. "THE ROOTS OF CHRISTIAN ANTI SEMITISM." Available at Amazon.
Dr. Shumel Safrai, “The Jewish People in the First Century: Historical Geography, Political History, Social, Cultural and Religious...Vols. 1 and 2.”
Bacchiocchi, Samule. "From Sabbath to Sunday. (1977)." Rome, Italy. Pontifical Gregorial University Press. Free download at this link - http://www.anym.org/pdf/from_Sabbath_to_Sunday_samuele_bacchiocchi.pdf
Encyclopedia Judaica. 1972. Keter Publishing. Jerusalem:Israel.
"Feasts and the Holidays, the Mo’edim." https://hebrew4christians.com/Holidays/holidays.html
Flusser, David. "Judaism and the Origins of Christianity." 1988. Magness Press. Jerusalem.
Hayyim, Schauss. "The Jewish Festivals." © 1938
"The Jewish Encyclopedia." www.jewishencyclopedia.com
Levine, Lee. 2005. "The Ancient Synagogue: the First Thousand Years." 2nd Edition. New Haven: Yale University Press.
Stern, David. Jewish New Testament Commentary. 1996. Jewish New Testament Publications. Clarksfield:Maryland.
Stern, David. The Complete Jewish Bible. 1998. Jewish New Testament
Wilson, Marvin. Our Father Abraham. 1989. W.B. Eerdman’s. Grand Rapids:MI. Contours of Hebrew Thought.
Finally, here's a link to a chapter of one of my books I did for my classes. The content is based upon the sources above. Link -
https://www.dropbox.com/s/qdycam9yad7ekax/e%20Lesson5..signbetweenus..2019..137..188.pdf?dl=0
A second link is related to Paul meeting in Troas on the FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK. Here's the link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/rmkqxbq18k3cmeq/SABBATH%20IN%20TROAS%20AND%20REVELATION.pdf?dl=0
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
We continue with part 3 on the lesson on how is Jesus connected to Shabbat (Hebrew for the Sabbath). Jesus said all scripture testifies of Him. He said that between 24-30 A.D. and they did not have the New Testament. That means the Old Testament is all about Jesus by His own word, the very words of God. So that means the Shabbat is a feast that testifies of Yeshua. Come and join us as we study part 3 and see that Jesus is like a Shadow over the Sabbath. Maybe Sabbath will become a "bigger deal" once we see what God thinks about this.
We continue with part 2 on the lesson on how is Jesus connected to Shabbat (Hebrew for the Sabbath). Once you understand this it'll change your practice of the Lord's Shabbat totally. This is NOT about going to church on Sunday or your Messianic congregation on Saturday. Shabbat is about TIME, a 24 hour period we are to make HOLY. And, it is all about Yeshua.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Over the last 5 to 10 years I have noticed Christians becoming interested in the Jewish Passover Meal – the Seder. Many say they see how it connects to Jesus. Christians also see how Jesus is also related to Passover. The lambs were sacrificed on the same day the Lamb of God was sacrificed or Jesus was crucified. Matter of fact I teach a course on the feasts of the Lord found in Leviticus 23 and how they testify of Jesus. Paul teaches us this. Consider the text …
Therefore no one is to act as your judge in regard to food or drink or in respect to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath day-- things which are a mere shadow of what is to come; but the substance belongs to Christ. (Col 2:16-17)
The feasts are shadows of something. Something is casting a “shadow”over the feasts. What? Who? Jesus of course. He is the substance of the shadow or that which makes up the shadow. But, as we have seen in previous lessons, the greatest of all the Lord’s feasts, actually, appointed times set by Him, is the Sabbath, or in Hebrew, שַׁבָּת Shabbat.
God has created an appointed time called the Sabbath on the 7th day of each week. It is a holy TIME; it is 24 hours long and not about just going to church. During this set aside time, or holy time, the Lord commands us to have a special separate meeting during this 24 hour holy time as in Leviticus 23:3. The Jews do a synagogue service and from this the “church” followed suit and did a church service. But Jesus said …
“You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me.” (Joh 5:39)
Jesus said this between 24-30 A.D. and all they had was the Hebrew Scriptures – a.k.a. the Old Testament. So, the Sabbath must be a SHADOW of things to come. And the Sabbath MUST testify of Jesus. But how? It is easy to “see” Jesus in Passover. It is easy to see how the Jewish Seder relates to Jesus. But שַׁבָּת Shabbat? How? How is Jesus connected to this special, set aside, or holy 24 hour period? Let’s go study this in the next three lessons. So, ready? Come let’s go.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Lesson 9 Part 2
No one teaches the awesomeness of this feast, this "appointed time" of יהוה Yahvay, the Lord. Few Christians in Sunday congregations or Messianic congregations know that Shabbat is a BIG DEAL. Yes, it is a feast of the Lord by the very words of God. Don't believe me, you can read it for your self in Lev. 23:1-3 and you'll notice that the Sabbath is 1st in the list. There are 8 festivals of the Lord - they are not Jewish feasts. They belong to the Lord.
So, come. Join us. Study what you've been missing. Come and let the Lord help us understand the awesome of His שָׁבַת Shabbat so that He can enhance our walk of faith with המשיח ישוע, HaMaschiach Yeshua, Jesus the Messiah, Jesus the Christ.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Lesson 9 Part 1
Do you do the Sabbath? It is one of the Ten Commandments, so you'd better. But, do you do it on Sunday? Or, do you do it on Saturday where some might say it is the "Jewish" Sabbath? Who is right? In this video we will not debate whether the Sabbath is Sunday or Saturday. This debate has been going on for 1000's of years and I don't think I can end the debate with a short 30 minute or 60 minute video.
However, what is the Sabbath? What do you think the Sabbath is? Is it simply when you go to church? Oh no, you say, it is about church and resting, right? God said we are to rest. So why do it on Saturday or even Sunday? "Why can't I have a day of rest when I want?," some might say. But, what if He never said to rest? What if He meant something else? What's the 7th day have to do about it? Is that all it's about - going to church and, perhaps, taking a nap? Or is there something bigger that God is having us understand and practice? I suggest to you that the Sabbath - שָׁבַת Shabbat in Hebrew - is much much bigger.
Both groups, ones who practice שָׁבַת Shabbat on Saturday and those who practice שָׁבַת Shabbat on Sunday, are not being taught what this feast of the Lord actually is. This is my experience after growing up in Sunday churches and later attending Messianic congregations. No one is teaching the awesomeness of this feast, this "appointed time" of יהוה Yahvay, the Lord. Yes, it is a feast of the Lord by the very words of God. Don't believe me, you can read it for your self in Lev. 23:1-3 and you'll notice that the Sabbath is 1st in the list. There are 8 festivals of the Lord - they are not Jewish feasts. They belong to the Lord.
So, come. Join us. Study what you've been missing. Come and let the Lord help us understand the awesome of His שָׁבַת Shabbat so that He can enhance our walk of faith with המשיח ישוע, HaMaschiach Yeshua, Jesus the Messiah, Jesus the Christ. Let's us return to our first love. Sing along with us, "Ahshuv Ahlecka - Coming Back to You." Link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZoMT2fqnQyM
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In lessons 8-11 of podcast 47 on the Ten Commandments we focus on Exod. 20:8-11 or commandment #4 in the Jewish and Protestant list of the Ten Commandments and #3 of the Catholic list. The commandment is to keep the Sabbath, the 7th day of the week, holy. In Hebrew to be holy is to be separate or set aside as special. The commandment is NOT to rest but to make it HOLY. Matter of fact the Hebrew word for Sabbath is שַׁבָּת Shabbat and it has a conceptual meaning of ceasing, to desist, to stop work for a period of time. It does not mean taking a nap, laying around in your backyard drinking iced tea, or picking up a book and reading and relaxing. Many Christians have no idea of the Hebrew and think they can pick their own day to rest and have a break from work. I agree. If you want a day off from work and your boss approves, go ahead. But the 7th day is defined by God and HIS Shabbat (Gen. 2:2-3 and Lev. 23:3), His day where WE cease and desist and do other things to make HIS Shabbat holy. The better idea is to stop one’s normal weekly activity and to lay it aside and to do “work” that makes the Sabbath holy. Thus, if one rests all day, if one sleeps for most of the Sabbath, one probably is not doing what needs to be done to make this day HOLY, special, set aside as unique.
In lesson 8 we will study the Shabbat and consider some basic ideas. One idea is that where did this 7 day week come from? Must’ve come from somewhere right? Some say the Jews stole the 7 day week from the Babylonians. Consider this.
BABYLON AND THE 7 DAY WEEK
Counting from the new moon, the Babylonians celebrated every seventh day as a "holy-day", also called an "evil-day" (meaning "unsuitable" for prohibited activities). The lunation of 29 or 30 days basically contained three seven-day weeks, and a final week of eight or nine days inclusive, breaking the continuous seven-day cycle. But, the Sabbath week has nothing to do with the moon. If the Jews stole it from the Babylonians every full moon of every month would be a Sabbath; for us it’d be a Saturday. Sorry, it just doesn’t work. (Pinches, T.G. (1919). "Sabbath (Babylonian)". In Hastings, James (ed.). Encyclopedia of Religion and Ethics. Selbie, John A., contrib. Charles Scribner's Sons)
Among other theories of Shabbat origin, the Universal Jewish Encyclopedia of Isaac Landman advanced a theory of Assyriologists like Friedrich Delitzsch that Shabbat originally arose from the lunar cycle, containing four weeks ending in Sabbath, plus one or two additional unreckoned days per month. The difficulties of this theory include reconciling the differences between an unbroken week and a lunar week, and explaining the absence of texts naming the lunar week as Shabbat in any language. In other words there is no primary sources that in anyway support such a view. (Sampey, John Richard (1915). "Sabbath: Critical Theories". In Orr, James (ed.). The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia.)
Also, what might be some reasons to keep the Sabbath? Oh I know. It means going to church. Nope. The Sabbath is HOLY time: a 24 hour period that God set aside as His. How do we participate in HOLY time?
So, get ready. You are in for an amazing “ride” to hear God, to hear The Very Words Of God, and join with HIM to make this 24 hours special and awesome.
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background ... - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Now we focus on commandment #2 or #3 depending on whether you are a Jew or Catholic or Protestant. Again, here are the three lists of the Ten Commandments.
Jews have one and the Catholics have theirs and the Protestants have theirs. They are all different. Our focus is not studying the Ten Commandments since that phrase never appears in Hebrew in the Bible but the Ten STATEMENTS. That is what it really says. Not commandments. It was a mistranslation of the church first appearing in 1500’s A.D.
We will study Exod. 20:7. The 1st half of the verse is the commandment. But, we can not study the commandment without putting it back into its textual context. When we do we find this act is dangerous. It is perhaps the most dangerous of all things we ever could do. Why? Well. Come join us as we study the commandment that says in English, “do not take the name of the Lord in vain.”
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link -https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
AUDIO SESSION
Jacob wants out and wants to go home. It has been 14 years serving his crooked uncle Laban just for Rachel. Well, Jacob has Rachel and Leah and 11 strong boys and 1 beautiful daughter, Dinah. Time to go home.
To settle up Jacob seems to use a weird way of making sheep have spotted lambs. If they are spotted Jacob gets those and Laban the rest. The story shows that the sheep had more spotted lambs and Jacob's flocks grew immense. The International Varsity Press Bible Commentary of the Old Testament suggests that the method Jacob uses is just folklore. It was something that those in the ancient near east believed worked but modern genetics shows it does not. Here's the commentary from the International Varsity Press Bible Commentary of the Old Testament.
Gen_30:32-33. sheep breeding. The coloring chosen by Jacob (dark lambs and variegated goats) generally made up a very small proportion of the herd. Jacob seems to be settling for a share that was far smaller than usual, in that contracts of the day designated sometimes as much as 20 percent of new births for the shepherd (Bedouin studies today suggest that 10 percent is common). Byproducts (wool, milk products) are not mentioned here, but a percentage of those were also often part of the shepherd's compensation. Gen_30:37-43. use of rods. Jacob's solution to Laban's treachery contains elements of scientific breeding and folklore tradition. Clearly, shepherds would have been aware of the estrus cycle of their sheep (which runs from June to September), and observation would have demonstrated that breeding healthy animals would produce vigorous lambs. What is not scientific, however, is the principle that certain characteristics (coloration in this case) can be bred for through visual aids. The stripped rods which Jacob places before the troughs of the sheep cannot genetically affect the sheep. This type of sympathetic magic is found in many folk traditions (including modern tales of colors worn by a mother determining the sex of her child). It plays a part in the trickster theme of this narrative and is reflective of a culture which depended on a mixture of magical and commonsense methods to produce results. (The IVP Bible Background Commentary: Old Testament Copyright © 2000 by John H. Walton, Victor H. Matthews and Mark W. Chavalas)
But, Jacob says something in Gen. 30:33 that most of us would miss. It is an awesome statement and it implies Jacob says from now on he will be honest and righteous so that this will come back to him in the future. In essence Jacob is saying "what goes around comes around." This concept among the people of the Middle East is called, "Measure for Measure" or in Hebrew
מדה קנגד מדה
Meedah K'negged Meedah
This one verse is an awesome teaching that the Lord is giving us. It takes us to Jesus and even to Paul. It is a characteristic of a true disciple of our rabbi Jesus.
Lois Tverberg, an awesome Bible scholar and author of key books on being a disciple of Jesus our "rabbi" has an excellent article on the concept of measure for measure. Here's the link -
https://ourrabbijesus.com/articles/jesus-jewish-logic-measure-for-measure/#:~:text=Jesus%E2%80%99%20Jewish%20Logic%3A%20Measure%20for%20Measure%20July%2028%2C,mee-dah%29%2C%20which%20means%2C%20literally%2C%20%E2%80%9Cmeasure%20corresponding%20to%20measure.%E2%80%9D
So come and study with us. Come and consider מדה קנגד מדה MeedahK'neggedMeedah or measure for measure and again see how all scripture testifies of Jesus as He taught in John 5:39.
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background ... - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
We are now in the 6th lesson in this special podcast series on the Ten Commandments. In this lesson we will focus on Exod. 20:4-6 …
"You shall not make for yourself an idol, or any likeness of what is in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the water under the earth. "You shall not worship them or serve them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children, on the third and the fourth generations of those who hate Me, but showing lovingkindness to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments. (Exo 20:4-6)
One thing to observe is in context all this deals with the sin of idolatry. It is important to keep than in mind especially when one takes in the phrase “…visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children, on the third and the fourth generations of those who hate Me…” since this does not mean for all sins. This phrase is only related to the sin of idolatry. This will become clear in the study itself.
A second thing to consider is ONLY the Protestant version of the Ten Commandments it related to these verses. The Jewish and Catholic versions do not include any of the words from verse 4-6. Once again here is the list of the three versions of the Ten Commandments.
This is a clear example that if on studies the Ten Commandments dismissed from the textual context one loses a lot of what God wants us to understand. We will never get the full idea of what God is teaching us, His instruction, His TORAH, about a commandment if it is taken out of context. Thus we need to study ASERET MITZVAOT עשרת מצוות (Hebrew of Ten Commandments which is not found in the original Hebrew) in the context of ASERET HADEVAREEM עשרת הדברים (Hebrew for the Ten Words or Statements of the Lord, in other words, verses 1-17 of Exodus 20).
I mentioned the teachings of the great Bible scholar, Dwight Pryor. He did a series on the divinity of Yeshua. It can be found at the link below. Studying Dr. Pryor’s lesson will help any Christian to be able to answer the question, “Is Jesus God?” I highly recommend this audio series. Here’s the link - https://www.jcstudies.store/one-god-one-lord-the-shema-and-the-divinity-of-jesus/
In this lesson we confront one of the key dogmatic differences between Judaism and Christianity. Judaism believes that God is only spiritual and is not physical and can never appear in the physical. Christianity believes that God became a man. To a religious Jew this seems then to come against these words of God in Exod. 20:3-4. Also, they would bring up …
"God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should repent; Has He said, and will He not do it? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good? (Num 23:19)
This shows there is a huge barrier between the beliefs of Judaism and that of Christianity. I urge you to 1st study the lessons from Dwight Pryor mentioned above. 2nd, check out this article on GotQuestions.com – a evangelical Bible study website. Here’s the link - https://www.gotquestions.org/God-is-not-a-man.html
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link -https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
The Magdala Synagogue is the name used for the first of two ancient synagogues discovered at the ancient city of Magdala in Israel, close to the shore of the Sea of Galilee. The synagogue was in use in the Second Temple period, which places them among the oldest synagogues found in Israel. Inside the synagogue a carved stone was found representing the Menorah, the seven-branched candelabrum that was located in the Second Temple, making it the oldest such representation in a Jewish context and one that appears to have been made by an individual who had seen the Menorah in the Temple. What is so awesome is in Matt. 4:23 Jesus is said to have taught in all the synagogues in the Galilee. So this is where Jesus visited and taught. Come and join us to "walk in the dust of Rabbi Jesus" and follow Him in His footsteps - the King of Kings and Lord of Lords and the only God our Savior and Messiah, Jesus.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Samson in the Bible. Kids story? Legend? Or is there something in archaeology that helps us see this is likely a real man and the events really happened. Check it out in this new Truth Nuggets (Emet Gosheem - מת גושים ) #24 video.
Link to archaeological report on Philistine Temples - https://ferrelljenkins.blog/2010/07/29/philistine-temple-found-at-tell-es-safigath/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
We continue to study Rachel and Leah. The two wives of Jacob. Both women part of God’s continuing plan of redemption for Jew and Gentile in Messiah Yeshua. But how?
We see glaring differences in these two women. It is clear that Rachel is Jacob’s choice over Leah. Lead is not in a primary position as her sister. The Hebrew is clear. The Hebrew word שָׂנֵא SAHNAY H8130 has the conceptual meaning of not being in first place and can even mean to hate or being hated. In Leah's case she is not hated but certainly not loved at the same level as Rachel.
In this God shows us again how He choses between one or another. One of these women is a picture of man’s choice and the other is a picture of God’s choice. It’s like Saul and David. Saul was handsome and strong and tall and macho. But, David. Not so. He was a young man and perhaps a pre-teen when David was anointed king. But there are glaring differences in Saul and David. One seems to be the way men would choose and the other is the way God chooses. This seems to relate to Rachel and Leah.
One goal of this series is to see how the Hebrews coming out of Egypt may have understood these events in Genesis 29 with Rachel and Leah. They are the first ones to hear God’s word written by Moses, the Torah. It is clear that they are the first audience. So, how does the story of Leah and Rachel relate to them. It has everything to do with the plant below …
This is ancient Mandrake plant that some call “love apples.” It supposedly is an ancient aphrodisiac or fruit when eaten that excites sexual desire. This was only a folk legend then and it is proven not to be an aphrodisiac. But, when the Hebrews hear about this in the story of Rachel and Leah, everything takes on a new aspect. God once again is teaching His elect, His “bride,” His chosen people He redeemed and delivered from the house of slaves, Egypt.
So, come let us return to Haran. Let us return to the tents of Jacob. Let’s return and go deeper in our understanding of the main books of the Bible in Jesus’ day. The books that testify of Yeshua HaMashiach, the Jesus the Messiah, Jesus the Christ.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Our focus in this lesson is verse Exod. 20:3 …
“You shall have no other gods before Me.”
This is the 2nd commandment in the Jewish list of the Ten Commandments. But, it is part of the 1st commandment for Catholics and Protestants. See the list of the Commandments for Jews, Catholics, and Protestants below.
One thing we notice is the Catholics and Protestants both left out the phrase “who has taken you out of the land of Egypt.” We will find in this lesson that for Catholics and Protestants this will show that the verse Exod. 20:3 can not be clearly understood. It can be, however, if one studies it in textual and historical context. This lesson will bring that out quite clearly. It is another glaring example that one must study the Ten Commandments in their textual context and not “stand alone” as in the Catholic or Protestant lists.
Just consider the lists below. In the first is the Protestant Ten Commandments highlighted within the all the words of verse 1-17. The second is the Jewish list of the Ten Commandments (they are underlined). If one wants to truly understand the Commandments and their interpretation one must leave them in the original textual context.
Rabbi Jonathan Cahn, a Christian rabbi or Messianic rabbi, is quite famous for his books, “The Harbinger” and “The Harbinger II.” He has written another fascinating book I highly recommend, “The Return of the Gods.” His premise is that there is evidence in our society today that the reasons why the ancients revered and bowed down to ancient gods have returned. It is as if those ancient page gods are back among us. AS a Bible historian I find Rabbi Cahn’s writings very convincing and totally disturbing. See the picture of the rabbi below and the book, “The Return of the Gods.”
The reason I bring up this book is it so relates to Exod. 20:3 …
“You shall have no other gods before Me.”
We will see that this verse properly interpreted from the ancient Hebrew shows that a false god is more than some idol of ancient days. It seems as if the TORAH defines what a false god is and thus God’s INSTRUCTION, His תּוֹרָה Torah, shows that this is applicable to today. Jonathan Cahn suggests this in his book makes a clear and convincing argument.
Not only him as a Christian, but Dennis Prager as well. He brings it up in his Torah commentary, “Exodus: the Rational Bible,” but also in his excellent 5 minute video on Exod. 20:3.
You will see how Dennis Prager, a true scholar and deeply religious Jew, shows us what are modern false gods. Here’s the link to the video that is found at PragerU.
Link - https://www.prageru.com/video/no-other-gods
Once again I say thank you to Jonathan Cahn and Dennis Prager. Each man has given us excellent teaching on the false gods in our day. However, the Torah shows what is behind all this. God’s word is clear and precise and quite basic and simple. Taken all together we find that this statement of the Lord in Exod. 20:3 is so awesome and so terrifying as it relates to our day. You’ll see what I mean as you study along with me in this lesson.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
AUDIO SESSION
We now come to Haran with יַעֲקֹב Ya'akov, or, as we know him, Jacob. He is now about to meet two great women of the Bible, Rachel and Leah. In this lesson we start considering each of these women and to study their traits and characteristics. One thing for sure is the creation of the state of Israel (which is Jacob's other name) all began because Jacob was so taken in by Rachel's physical attractiveness and beauty. God knew this. He knew the effect Rachel had on men. Clearly, God engineered the meeting at the well so that the rest of the story would unfold as per יְהֹוָה Yahvay's, the Lord's, plan.
So, Rachel was ravishing, a beauty of Haran, but Leah, what about her? Some say she had "weak" eyes. Some say Leah was hated. Some say Leah as less preferable than Rachel. Really? Once again if you only focus on the English and not the Hebrew we get the wrong ideas of Leah and the amazing lady she was. Moses, who wrote all this under God's inspiration, actually writes to show us that it is God, it is יְהֹוָה Yahvay, the Lord, that Leah recognizes right from the get go as she begins to have children by Jacob. But, how did Leah know the personal name of God? God said to Moses at the burning bush that not even Abraham or Isaac or Jacob, or anyone else for that matter, knew His personal name which was first revealed at Sinai. What's going on? We need to study this further.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
After the three introductory videos we now begin the study of Exod. 20:1-17 – the exact words of the Lord or as is known in the original Hebrew, עשׂרת הדברים Aseret HaDevareem, the Ten Words or better is the Ten Statements. We found in the introductory videos in Lesson 1 Part 1 and Part 2 there is no such thing as Ten Commandments in the original Hebrew. It was a mistranslation of the church in the late 1500’s.
In Biblical Hebrew, the Ten Commandments, called עשרת הדיברות (transliterated aseret ha-dibrot), are mentioned at Exodus 34:28, Deuteronomy 4:13 and Deuteronomy 10:4. In all sources, the terms are translatable as "the ten words", "the ten sayings", or "the ten matters".
In the Septuagint (or LXX), the "ten words" was translated as "Decalogue", which is derived from Greek δεκάλογος, dekalogos, the latter meaning and referring to the Greek translation (in accusative) δέκα λόγους, deka logous. This term is also sometimes used in English, in addition to Ten Commandments. The Tyndale and Coverdale English biblical translations used "nine verses". The Geneva Bible used "ten commandments", which was followed by the Bishops' Bible and the Authorized Version (the "King James" version) as "ten commandments". Most major English versions use the word "commandments".
(Taken from Wikipedia)
But the idea of Ten Commandments stuck and now we have at least three official versions; the Jewish version, the Catholic and Protestant. All three are different and are subject to the view of the translator and NOT the actual words of the Bible. Shown below are the three versions.
(From Hebrew4Christians.com)
In these lessons we will study עשׂרת הדברים Aseret HaDevareem with the understanding that the Ten Commandments are embedded in the Ten Statements. Our goal is to study the Ten Commandments in their textual context; study the commandments in the Aseret HaDevareem. So, in this lesson we consider Exod. 2:1-2 or …
Then God spoke all these words, saying, “I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.” (Exo 20:1-2)
The Catholic and Protestant versions do not have the phrase “who brought you out of the land of Egypt.” Why? Why did they leave God’s words out? So as we study verses 1-2 we will see that if you are a Catholic or if you are a Protestant or some type of non-Catholic, the missing phrase is critical. We can not study whatever version of the Ten Commandments and not understand how this relates to us as Gentile believers in the 21st century. This also goes for the phrase “out of the house of slavery.” Once again this is left out of the Christian list. By doing this we miss what God might be probably to teach His chosen one then and us, us who have been grafted in to the olve tree of Israel. We must study עשׂרת הדברים Aseret HaDevareem and thus to understand the Ten Commandments in their context.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link -
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
This is the final lesson in the introduction to the Ten Commandments. We will discuss two more topics.
- Is the Sinai Covenant only for Israel? Are the Ten Commandments meant only for them or everyone?
- Is God’s religion a significant component of our lives or is it something bigger?
Our religion that comes from the religion of the Jewish people prior to Jesus’ day encompasses all of life. There is nothing of life that is not affected by our religion. This is in direct contrast with the Greek philosophical concept of life components and the balance of life as taught by Aristotle. His teachings deeply influenced the church after it separated from Israel and centered itself in Rome and abandoned its Jewish roots.
There is one last topic that forms the conclusion of this lesson. The topic is both Jews and Gentiles recognized that the Sinai Covenant had a missing piece. The Ten Commandments, God’s covenant statement was not meant to do it all. It was incomplete. It was missing something – it was missing a blood sacrifice to cleanse a sinner from INTENTIONAL sin. There were blood sacrifices required for UNINTENTIONAL sin, mistakes, lapses in judgment. One can read about this in Leviticus 4 or Numbers 15:22-31. If one sins defiantly, if one sins willingly and openly, if one sins with a high hand of rebellion, in other words INTENTIONALLY there is NO blood sacrifice in the Sinai Covenant to cleanse the sinner. The great Jewish rabbis, Akiva in the early 2nd century A.D., and Maimonides in the late 12th century A.D. both discussed this. They agree with the writer of Hebrews and Paul himself. So, what was the solution. What was the missing piece. Whose blood is the blood needed by the covenant? This is a major concept that we end with before we start studying the individual verses in Exodus 20:1-17.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link -
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In this lesson we continue the introduction to the Ten Commandments. This is God's Covenant and He shows us that the life of His people, the life of those He enter the covenant, is a life far different than perhaps what we may have learned. We may have learned that we need to live a balanced life. We need to put things in their proper perspective and not anything in our life should become so high a priority that it tilts the balance. The church of Rome after it disconnected from its Jews roots, seemingly incorporated aspects of Greek philosophy. Aristotle was the big proponent of a balanced life. He said if you live such a life you will be happy. This is not what the Lord wants. When He gave Israel and us the Ten Commandments, actually עשׂרת הדברים Aseret HaDevareem, the Ten Statements (words), He was also teaching us that if we are truly a disciple of Jesus we will NOT live a balanced life.
So, God gives עשׂרת הדברים Aseret HaDevareem, His Ten Statements. Who was the targeted audience? Just the Hebrews only? If so why has the church taken them on? We are taught that Jesus did away with the "old" covenant. Huh? That means according to God's word, the very words of God Himself, that the Ten Commandments are null and void. Why? God said they were His covenant.
So he was there with the LORD forty days and forty nights; he did not eat bread or drink water. And he wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant, the Ten Commandments. (Exo 34:28)
This lesson like the previous lessons take us deeper into our understanding of this significant event in human history. Join me on this amazing journey into the very words of God and to study His עשׂרת הדברים Aseret HaDevareem - His Ten Statements - and see how this testifies of Yeshua Adonaynoo, Jesus our Lord.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
The Fall Feasts are shadows of the Messiah. They testify of Jesus our Lord. Now is the time to study the feasts before they begin. (See the 2022 calendar below for the dates).
To access the podcasts do this ...
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Go to the website - www.LightofMenorah.org
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Find the "SEARCH" window in the upper right area of the home page.
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Enter "Rosh HaShana" and click on SEARCH. You'll have access to all the lessons for this appointed time. They are in reverse order, however. If there are 4 lessons, lesson 4 is first then 3, and so on. You'll need to scroll down to access lesson 1.
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Do this for the other feasts as well. Enter "Yom Kippureem" or "Sukkot" and get access to all the lessons for each of these fall appointed times, or as we call them, feasts.
So, get a Bible study group together. Do this at home or for Sunday school or for Shabbat if in a Messianic congregation. A great way to develop fellowship and support each other as you continue to develop as true disciples of Adonai Yeshua.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link -
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In this episode we continue to study Biblical geography. We continue to focus on the ancient city of Shechem - located below and between Mt. Gerizim and Mt. Ebal in central Israel. God uses this location to SHOW us, with our own eyes, the continued amazing progress of His redemption plan. The Lord gives Abraham four promises in Haran before Abraham leaves with Sarah for Canaan. Consider ...
Now the LORD said to Abram (in Haran), "Go forth from your country, And from your relatives And from your father's house, To the land which I will show you (promise of a PLACE); And I will make you a great nation (promise of descendants or PEOPLE), And I will bless you, And make your name great (promise of being well known forever or a promise of POSITION); And so you shall be a blessing; And I will bless those who bless you, And the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed (promise of a PURPOSE to his life)." So Abram went forth as the LORD had spoken to him; and Lot went with him. Now Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran. Abram took Sarai his wife and Lot his nephew, and all their possessions which they had accumulated, and the persons which they had acquired in Haran, and they set out for the land of Canaan; thus they came to the land of Canaan. Abram passed through the land as far as the site of Shechem, to the oak of Moreh. Now the Canaanite was then in the land. The LORD appeared to Abram and said (God's promise of a PLACE is given at Shechem), "To your descendants I will give this land." So he built an altar there to the LORD who had appeared to him. (Gen 12:1-7)
Their first stop was Shechem. One couple with the promises of God. Who is next? It was Jacob and his family. We saw that in previous episodes. Jacob was told by the Lord that Jacob had the same promises that the Lord gave to his grand father, Abraham. Jacob returns from Haran and his first stop is Shechem. We see that the Lord is giving Abraham descendants and the land. Jacob arrives in Shechem and purchases land and may have dug a well. But, just like Abraham Jacob builds an altar to the Lord just like his grandpa. Things are repeated. This is the hand of God. So, does God continue to show us His redemption plan at Shechem? You better believe it. God is so amazing.
Episode 11 and 12 and 13 deal with the topic of Biblical geography with a focus on the ancient city of Shechem. So, make sure you have viewed 11 & 12 to make sense of the material in this lesson. At the website you can do a search using the phrase "five small stones" to get all 13 episodes of this video Bible study series.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Jacob and Bet El (pronounced BATE EL) is given the same promises (check it out in Gen. 28:13-15 and 12:1-3) that were given to his grand pa Abraham but not that Jacob’s name will be famous. The covenant with Abraham and his seed (Hebrew meaning descendants) is amazing. For through Abraham and his seed all the families of all the nations will be blessed. However, in this lesson we’ll see that the Hebrew has an alternative meaning. It is bigger than we thought. Blessed is perhaps NOT the right way of using the conceptual meaning in this context.
We need to understand that there is a missing piece in how Adonai put together the Torah. Once we get this the event of Jacob’s dream and his encounter with the Lord takes us to the cross. Even the great rabbis of Judaism saw it. They saw that there is something missing in the Torah.
Consider Rabbi Akiva’s words in the Talmud.
"Rabbi Akiva says that if those subject to the punishment of karet repent, the Heavenly beit-din [court] grants them remission." (Makkot 13b)
Karet is a Hebrew word that means an offense, a sin, that is done on purpose or intentionally. It is so serious that an offense of Karet cuts one off from being a part of Israel and as per Torah, as per the very words of God, karet is never ever forgiven or cleansed. Rabbi Akiva, however, thinks the Torah is wrong. He says Karet can be forgiven is by repentance. What? The Bible never says that. The Lord never ever said that serious sins can be cleansed or forgiven by simply repenting. What we are seeing is Akiva’s opinion and not the very words of God in His Torah. We are also seeing that Akiva is implying that Yom Kippur does not take care of intentional sin. He is implying that the sin sacrifice or the sacrifice of goats or sheep or bulls is insufficient to cleanse one’s Karet done intentionally.
Maimonides’ says it another way.
The more one confesses and elaborates on this matter, the more praiseworthy he is. And, also, those under an obligation to bring sin‑offerings and trespass‑offerings, who bring their sacrifices for sins committed either in error or willfully, are not acquitted [of their sins] by means of these offerings until they repent and confess in words… (https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/the-dimensions-of-repentance/)
In other words, sacrifice alone cannot bring acquittal; confession is a requirement and without it, repentance cannot take place. But, once again Maimonides is clearly implying that the sacrifices and rituals of Yom Kippur do not take away sins done intentionally, on purpose, with the full realization on the sinner.
The writer of the book of Hebrews also agrees. Recall …
and not through the blood of goats and calves, but through His own blood, He entered the holy place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption. (Heb 9:12)
Akiva and Maimonides and the author of Hebrews all agree. The Torah is missing something. There is no ritual, no sacrifice, no prayer that will assure us of totally forgiveness. Maimonides and Akiva’s opinion is that one must truly repent and confess. But, the the book of Hebrews and John and Paul, agreeing with these great rabbis, teaches us what the missing piece is. It is clearly explained by the disciple John as we read …
"... but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1Jn 1:7-9)
And then we read Paul’s word that Jesus, God Himself, cleanses us by the blood.
"Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.” (Act 20:28)
So, we see we must repent. We see that we must confess. But God is saying that someone must pay the price for our since. Akiva and Maimonides never addressed this. Someone must purchase us, in Hebrew redeem us, to be set free of the punishment of our Karet, our sin against the Lord done intentionally and willfully.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link -
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Our study on עשׂרת הדברים Aseret HaDevareem - the Ten Statements - of the Lord continues. In this lesson, lesson 2 part 2 of the introduction to the Ten Commandments, we ask how does the Ten Commandments witness of the Messiah, the Christ, Jesus. Jesus said it in John 5:39 ...
"You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me." (Joh 5:39)
... and all they had was the Hebrew Scriptures then, the Old Testament. How might these verses Exod. 20:1-17 testify of Jesus. Come on. Let's go see.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link -https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Our study on עשׂרת הדברים Aseret HaDevareem - the Ten Statements - of the Lord continues. In this lesson, lesson 2 of the introduction to the Ten Commandments, we see the difference between simply studying the Ten Commandments as opposed to all the words God spoke as recorded on Exodus 20:1-17. In other words not only are we again putting the Bible into its historical context but putting the Ten Commandments back into their textual context. Quite simply you can not study the Ten Commandments without understanding the rest of the words God spoke that surround the Ten. This will be clear as we look at three topics.
The 1st is the fact by God's own words that the Sinai Covenant never was replaced! Christians say it was replaced. We will see something far more amazing and powerful.
2nd, we will look as the organization of the Ten Commandments. This we know ...
"It is a sign between Me and the sons of Israel forever; for in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, but on the seventh day He ceased from labor, and was refreshed." When He had finished speaking with him upon Mount Sinai, He gave Moses the two tablets of the testimony, tablets of stone, written by the finger of God. (Exo 31:17-18)
God wrote them on two tablets. On both sides as well (Exod. 32:15). But, what was written on the front? The back? Were the two tablets copies of each other? Some say the Ten Commandments are in two groups. Group 1 is commandments 1 through 4 and the 2nd 5 through 10. I call it 4 by 6. Others say the 1st group is 1 through 5 and the 2nd 6 through 10. I call that 5 by 5. So what is it? The Torah is silent on all this. All we can do is consider some amazing possibilities.
Lastly, how did the Hebrews coming out of Egypt understand the words of Adonai in these verses. Or how did the disciples of Jesus understand them nearly 1500 years later. And how does this witness of the Messiah, the Christ, Jesus. Jesus said it in John 5:39 ...
"You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me." (Joh 5:39)
... and all they had was the Hebrew Scriptures then, the Old Testament. How might these verses testify of Jesus. Come on. Let's go see.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link -https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In part two we continue are introduction to the Ten Commandments - Aseret HaDevareem or the Ten Statements. God says these ten statements are His covenant as in Exod. https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-uhhag-1...
Part 2 - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-7uqgr-1...
Another series that even goes into this deeper are the podcasts entitled "The Archaeology of Pentecost/Shavuot." It is clear the Lord God is making an amazing connection between the first Passover and Pentecost and the 1st covenant and the 2nd covenant. Here's the link for this series.
Link - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/?s=shavuot
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link -
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Bible study on the Ten Commandments. This is not a study to re-teach the Ten Commandments. But as we put the Bible into its historical context, as we put the Bible back into its textual context, we begin to see things in a new light. This simply enriches our understanding of the Ten Commandments.
In Part 1 of lesson 1 we will ask if there are ten commandments or are they something else? And ten? Could there be 12 or 15 or 17 commandments? What is God's purpose in all this?
It is recommended that you listen to lesson 46 parts 1 & 2 first before jumping in to the extensive study of Exod. 20:1-17. Here's the links to lesson 46 parts 1 & 2.
Part 1 - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-uhhag-127e43f
Part 2 - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-7uqgr-1281e42
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background ... - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
New Podcast Bible study on the Ten Commandments. We are now on lesson 47 and we've reached Exodus chapter 20 and the Ten Commandments. This is a new covenant given at the mountain of God in Sinai and is like nothing the world has ever seen nor will see again - a covenant between the only God and a group of chosen people. On top of that this new covenant is intimately connected to the new covenant at the mountain of God in Jerusalem in Yeshua. Lesson 47 will focus on Exod. 20:1-17 and will be in multiple sessions. Check out the 6 minute announcement on this special and important series coming from Light of Menorah.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In lesson 4 part 2 in the Exodus series of podcasts it is seen that the Hebrews, probably starting after Joseph died in the last chapter of Genesis, assimilated into the culture and customs of ancient Egypt. They bought into the wrong “story.” I said I’d link you to the lesson in the Exodus series. It is critical that you listen to that podcast and understand the truth of the fact that the Hebrews assimilated into the Egyptian culture. It is so critical since it helps us understand the Torah, the first five books of the Bible, even from Genesis chapter 1 verse 1. Here’s the link - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-wdzur-f82194
And one aspect of the mythology of ancient Egypt has everything to do with ladders! In the ancient Pyramid texts dated to 2500 B.C. and still used in the days of Moses in 1446 B.C. there was the idea of the pharaoh needing a ladder to get to heaven. The ladder was provided by the gods so that the pharaoh could have a way to be with the gods in Egyptian paradise. Shown below is a picture found in one of the temples in ancient Egypt showing the ladder concept.
So, you are a Hebrew. You are free and not a slave any more. You hear that Moses is writing the books of God’s instruction; God’s instruction means תורה Torah. Torah means instruction and not law. You’ll be one of the first to hear what he wrote. It was perhaps understood then that Yahvay, the LORD, was somehow inspiring Moses to write these documents. So, what would you think when you came to the story of Jacob’s dream and the ladder to the heavens? You’d remember it from Egyptian mythology. But this time, the one, the true God, the only God, is helping you understand it is HE who gives us the way to Himself and not the Egyptian gods or pharaoh. It is the Lord who provides the WAY back to Himself since you probably heard the 1st book Moses wrote. Genesis. In that book you heard that the way to paradise, the way back to the Father was closed. But now, as you hear about Jacob’s dream it is as if God is trying to say there is good news, the “gospel.” It is as if God seems to say that one day the way back will be provided by the Lord.
The dream of Jacob is an awesome and powerful lesson. As we put it back into its historical context it even gets more profound. Come. Join us. Let us return to that ancient place that Jacob named בֵּית אֵל Bayt El, Bethel, the dwelling of God.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
This is the 2nd lesson on this amazing event - Jacob's dream of the ladder, the way to the Father. In lesson 68 we focus on Jacob making a deal with God. Check it out. Jacob says as if speaking to the Lord that if you Lord do X, and if you Lord do Y, THEN, then and only then will you be my God. So, is that what God wants us to see? Is that what God is teaching in His Torah which does not mean LAW but INSTRUCTION? Can it be? Can it be that we can cone to God have today in these days of evil and chaos and make a deal? Can we tell God, "Hey Lord, if you give us what we want politically or socially then we will your people?" Can we buy Him off? Is this the way to become "saved" by telling God to do our bidding. If He does then we will be His son or daughter.
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
It is critical that you make sure you listen to part 1 of this two part series. In part 1 we establish the real possibility that the Hebrews arrived on the 3rd day of the 3rd month. If this is the case then it seems as if יהוה Yahvay, the Lord, God, lead His people to His mountain to receive a new covenant at His mountain, Mt. Sinai. Interesting - 50 days after Passover, after the first day of Unleavened Bread, the Hebrews enter a covenant relationship with the Lord. This is an amazing event in that a new nation is born, a chosen people, and it's like a new beginning, a new start. It reminds me of the Year of Jubilee - every 50 years it is the year of Jubilee.
The Year of the Jubilee involved a year of release from indebtedness (Leviticus 25:23-38) and all types of bondage (vv. 39-55). All prisoners and captives were set free, all slaves were released, all debts were forgiven, and all property was returned to its original owners. (Like a new start) In addition, all labor was to cease for one year, and those bound by labor contracts were released from them. One of the benefits of the Jubilee was that both the land and the people were able to rest. (Accessed at https://www.gotquestions.org/Jubilee.html July 25,2022)
Link to Exodus Lesson 49 Part 1 - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-uhhag-127e43f
In this session we will see the awesome connection this has to the feast of Shavuot (Weeks) or Pentecost in Jesus' day. Jesus rose from the dead on a Biblical feast, the feast of first fruits, and 50 days later the 120 disciples received the Holy Spirit and these 120 as the "light to the nations" spoke in tongues of the Salvation of the Lord, the "Yeshua" of יהוה Yahvay. It was the New Covenant of the Lord at the mountain of the Lord, Jerusalem. Peter become so inspired, he does a short sermon in Acts 2 and as a result 3000 were baptized on the 50th day, Shavuot or Pentecost. Did he received the promised power to be the witness to the nations? You better believe it. So, the number 50 even takes on even more significance. Now it seems to be related to the days of Messiah and the coming of the רוח הקודש Ruach HaKodesh, the Holy Spirit.
The Jubilee presents a beautiful picture of the New Testament themes of redemption and forgiveness. Christ is the Redeemer who came to set free those who are slaves and prisoners to sin (Romans 8:2; Galatians 5:1; 3:22). The debt of sin we owe to God was paid on the cross as Jesus died on our behalf (Colossians 2:13-14), and we are forgiven the debt forever. We are no longer in bondage, no longer slaves to sin, having been freed by Christ, and we can truly enter the rest God provides as we cease laboring to make ourselves acceptable to God by our own works (Hebrews 4:9-10). (Accessed at https://www.gotquestions.org/Jubilee.html July 25,2022)
God has clearly done something on purpose. He has connected the New Covenant at His mountain, Mt. Sinai, to the New Covenant at His mountain, Jerusalem. The giving of the Ten Commandments is intimately connected to Pentecost or Shavuot.
Here's a link to the podcast series on the feast of Shavuot. In this study you'll even go deeper into your understanding of Passover and Pentecost. Link to the podcasts series on the feast of Shavuot (Pentecost) - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/?s=shavuot
I taught this is a class. Here's a link to the chapter from my class book. If you need the bibliography email me and I will get it to you.
Link to the article from Light of Menorah on Shavuot - https://www.dropbox.com/s/2rs9dwl481eb9s1/Chapter%204%20-%20The%20Spring%20Feasts%20-%20the%20End%20of%20the%20Beginning.pdf?dl=0
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Lesson 46 Part 1
They made it. The Hebrews led by Moses by the hand of Yahvay, the Lord, finally arrive at the Mountain of God. Here they will receive the Ten Commandments which the Lord says is His Covenant as we read …
Then the LORD said to Moses, "Write down these words, for in accordance with these words I have made a covenant with you and with Israel." So he was there with the LORD forty days and forty nights; he did not eat bread or drink water. And he wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant, the Ten Commandments. (Exo 34:27-28)
Israel comes to the Mountain of God in the Sinai and there they will enter a New Covenant - nothing like this ever happened before – and become a chosen people, a holy nation, and nation of priests. But, wait a minute, that sounds so familiar. It reminds us of Jesus and His lifting up His cup at His Last Supper – the cup of the New Covenant. This happens in Jerusalem.
There’s more. It so happens that the Mountain of God was Mt. Sinai as can be found in Exod. 3:1 and 3:12 and 19:1-3. We got this. No problem. But then we see that God moves His mountain to a new location. Just consider a few proof texts …
Now it will come about that In the last days The mountain of the house of the LORD Will be established as the chief of the mountains, And will be raised above the hills; And all the nations will stream to it. And many peoples will come and say, "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, To the house of the God of Jacob; That He may teach us concerning His ways And that we may walk in His paths." For the law will go forth from Zion And the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. (Isa 2:2-3)
"I will set a sign among them and will send survivors from them to the nations: Tarshish, Put, Lud, Meshech, Tubal and Javan, to the distant coastlands that have neither heard My fame nor seen My glory. And they will declare My glory among the nations. "Then they shall bring all your brethren from all the nations as a grain offering to the LORD, on horses, in chariots, in litters, on mules and on camels, to My holy mountain Jerusalem," says the LORD, "just as the sons of Israel bring their grain offering in a clean vessel to the house of the LORD. (Isa 66:19-20)
And it will come about in the last days That the mountain of the house of the LORD Will be established as the chief of the mountains. It will be raised above the hills, And the peoples will stream to it. Many nations will come and say, "Come and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD And to the house of the God of Jacob, That He may teach us about His ways And that we may walk in His paths." For from Zion will go forth the law, Even the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. (Mic 4:1-2)
He moved His mountain. It is now the Temple Mount in Jerusalem also known as Mt. Zion. (The term Mount Zion has been used in the Hebrew Bible first for the City of David (2 Samuel 5:7, 1 Chronicles 11:5; 1 Kings 8:1, 2 Chronicles 5:2) and later for the Temple Mount, but its meaning has shifted and it is now used as the name of ancient Jerusalem's Western Hill) And, this is where the New Covenant of God is given through Yeshua HaMashiach, Yeshua the Messiah, Jesus the Christ. On top of that we read the following …
But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God's OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; (1Pe 2:9)
Wow. What an amazing connection between the New Covenant at the Mountain of God Mt. Sinai and the New Covenant at the Mountain of God Mt. Zion - a Biblical name for the Temple Mount. God is connecting these covenants. He is not replacing the latter with the former. They are intimately related and you can not have on New Covenant without the other.
Is there more? You won’t believe it. This is another awesome chapter in Torah that meets the goals of this podcast series. Here are those goals. (Note - you can "right click" on the picture and open the picture in a new tab to read it)
So come and join us in this study. This is another awesome example that there is ONE book, ONE Bible, from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21, ONE God, ONE Lord, with ONE goal, Jesus!
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background ... - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In our day one might say our times are chaotic and evil. Today Christians and the church are even called evil and we are accused of being the source of all that is wrong. It’s too difficult to deal with. It seems that evil so controls our country, our society, and that we have no power over this at all. Nothing works. We try and solve it via politics and legislation and the vote. In my view the USA is on such a downward slide, it’ll never recover. This is not very hopeful. Without the Lord there is no hope.
Israel coming out of Egypt faced death and disorder as God led them into the wilderness of Sinai. The Hebrews had assimilated into the Egyptian culture slowly after Joseph died. For the Hebrews they understood and held to the Egyptian understanding that the wilderness of Sinai was a land of death, disorder, and evil. It was a place not conducive to good life. They called it the land of CHAOS. Their gods had no power over chaos. Their king, we call Pharaoh, must be the one to maintain order, life, prosperity, truth, and goodness, called Ma’at in Egyptian. Pharaoh had to battle against Chaos. The gods of Egypt had no power for Chaos, no power over the wilderness of Sinai. In Egypt they relied on a man to provide truth, justice, goodness, and order. It's like today. Reminds me of CLIMATE CHANGE. Many say WE humans must solve the problem. We must spend money and make laws to save the planet. I don't believe there is a climate crisis. It is simply not scientific. This reminds me of ancient Egypt and a worldview that lifts up mankind and has turned away from the one God, the true God, the one who made it all and the one who controls and rules over nature.
However, Yahvay, God, God alone, created the wilderness. He fed His chosen in the wilderness of Sinai. He gave them water from rocks in the Sinai. And He helped the Hebrews defeat the Amalekites in the Sinai at Rephidim. Moses as was in awe of Yahvay, the Lord, that he sets up an altar to remember the victory and he names the altar יהוה נסי - Yahvay Neesee, The Lord is My Banner.
Today many say this phrase says JEHOVAH NEESEE. The word Jehovah is shown to be a translation error of a Franciscan monk in the 16th century. Here’s a article by a renowned and proven scholar, David Biven, on this translation error. Link –
https://shamar.org/articles/jehovah-misunderstanding.html
We ask, how did those Hebrews perhaps understand this? Did it somehow connect to something in Egypt? What did it say to them then?
It is interesting to note that the Egyptian hieroglyphic symbol meaning GOD is a banner, a flag. Check out the article about the word NETJER in ancient Egyptian and the use of the flag to write this word for GOD –
https://www.encyclopedia.com/history/news-wires-white-papers-and-books/terminology-netjer#:~:text=The%20Egyptian%20word%20that%20is,flagpole%2C%20often%20shown%20in%20green.
Finally, we recall Jesus’ word in John 5:39 that all scripture testifies of Him.
“And the Father who sent Me, He has testified of Me. You have neither heard His voice at any time nor seen His form. "You do not have His word abiding in you, for you do not believe Him whom He sent. "You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me; and you are unwilling to come to Me so that you may have life.”(Joh 5:37-40)
Is it possible this verse, Exod. 17:15, also connects to Jesus? Of course it does. Jesus teaches us this truth. Come and let’s go see.
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
This lesson is split into two parts. Here in part 1 we meet a relative of Moses, Jethro. His name in Hebrew is pronounced יִתְרוֹ - YEE TRO.
In this study of Exodus 18 we will concentrate on a couple of items in part 1. First, we will study the FACT that Jethro is NOT Moses’ father-in-law. Our Bible in English says he is and it brings up contradictions that some scholars try to explain like Moses’ father-in-law had several names – culturally and historically untrue. They stay in the English and state that Reuel (Exodus. 2:18) and Jethro (Exodus 3:1 and 18:1) and Hobab (Jud. 4:11) are all the same guy. Yes, Reuel is a priest of Midian and so is Jethro. Pagan cultures had many priests not just one. It is rational to think that Moses married into a pagan priestly family and thus one of Reuel’s daughters married another priest whose name is Jethro. This would imply Jethro is Moses’ brother-in-law. And, this makes sense. But, we will study this in the Hebrew and NOT English and find the Hebrew word translated as father-in-law also is translated in the Bible as mother-in-law and also translated as marriages. We will see that in the Hebrew the contradiction is not a contradiction at all.
Secondly, we will see that the Hebrew Bible shows that amazing love God has for non-Hebrews. The example in Exodus 18 is of course Jethro. But there are others. Remember Pharaoh’s daughter, a pagan princess who saved Moses and became is step mom. Remember Hagar, the pagan Egyptian servant girl of Sarah’s. The Angel of the Lord first appears to her. Not Abraham. Not Sarah. But to a pagan servant. And remember Ruth coming out of the pagan Midianite culture who turned to the God of Abraham and the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob, the God of Israel and became an ancestor of the Messiah, of Yeshua Adonaynoo, Jesus our Lord. This chapter is a clear indication that God wants all men to be rescued from their sin and to be His people. Check it out …
“Say to them, 'As I live!' declares the Lord GOD, 'I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that the wicked turn from his way and live. Turn back, turn back from your evil ways! Why then will you die, O house of Israel?” (Eze 33:11)
“For I have no pleasure in the death of anyone who dies,” declares the Lord GOD. “Therefore, repent and live.”
(Eze 18:32)
“Turn to Me and be saved, all the ends of the earth; For I am God, and there is no other.” (Isa 45:22)
The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. (2Pe 3:9)
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” (Joh 3:16)
There is no separation in the eyes of the Lord as He looks down upon mankind. All lives matter to Him.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Traveling to the Galilee region in Israel one can visit the ancient synagogue at Chorazin. Walking through the synagogue you'll find the "Chair of Moses" or the "Moses Seat." See the picture below.
Some say in Jesus' day that those who would read the Torah portions on the Sabbath in the synagogue sat in this chair until they were called up to read during the Shabbat service. All historical evidence shows this to be unlikely. Even Jesus' words reflect it may not have been a practice in His day. When He was to read in the synagogue there is no indication that He was sitting in the "Moses Seat." We read ...
And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up. And as was his custom, he went to the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and he stood up to read. And the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." And he rolled up the scroll and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. (Luk 4:16-20)
Jesus was sitting and then stood up when He went to read. No where does it say He was sitting in the "Moses Seat" or the chair of authority. This is not absolute proof that the "Moses Seat" was not used that way in those days but this along with other clear historical evidence shows it wasn't.
The "Moses Seat" probably had everything to do with what we study in this lesson on Exodus 18 - the establishment of the judiciary in ancient Israel. Jethro advises Moses on the set up. Moses is the one who settles the major disputes and legal cases. Thus, the idea of sitting in "Moses Seat." It seems related to those who had authority to make judgments and decisions based upon the Torah. We remember Jesus saying ...
Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, "The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses' seat, so practice and observe whatever they tell you--but not what they do. For they preach, but do not practice. (Mat 23:1-3)
Jesus is saying that the Pharisees (most rabbis are Pharisees) are saying they have the authority of Moses and can make judgments and decisions based upon the Torah. The problem is, even tough they made a ruling or a decision on a certain practice or action, it was found that some of them did not "practice what they preached." That is exactly what Jesus is teaching us.
This is seen in the "Inter Varsity Press Bible Background Commentary: New Testament," a superb scholarly resource giving the historical and ancient cultural background on the words of the New Testament. We find ...
Mat_23:1-2. Some scholars have pointed to a prominent seat in many synagogues as a “seat of Moses” (cf. Mat_23:6), but Jesus presumably means this expression figuratively. The Pharisaic scribes who articulated the law believed their traditions were rooted in Moses’ own teaching and fancied themselves Moses’ successors for their own generation.
This is such an important study for us. Jethro clearly advises Moses to pick those who will serve as judges to judge partially with decisions based upon the truth and not influenced in any way either financially or otherwise. God is setting this up through Jethro for all Israel and us as well. Moreover, it was set up by a PAGAN, a non-Hebrew, a GOY, גוי, (plural goyim גוים)is a term for a gentile, a non-Jew. Once again we see how God expresses His "love" for all mankind in the way He inspires His writers of the Hebrew Scriptures to treat a GOY, גוי, (plural goyim גוים) - a gentile, a non-Jew.
Examples abound in His Word. Here's a few. We remember Pharaoh’s daughter, a pagan princess who saved Moses and became is step mom. Remember Hagar, the pagan Egyptian servant girl of Sarah’s. The Angel of the Lord first appears to her. Not Abraham. Not Sarah. But to a pagan servant. And remember Ruth coming out of the pagan Midianite culture who turned to the God of Abraham and the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob, the God of Israel and became an ancestor of the Messiah, of Yeshua Adonaynoo, Jesus our Lord. This chapter is a clear indication that God wants all men to be rescued from their sin and to be His people. Check it out …
“Say to them, 'As I live!' declares the Lord GOD, 'I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that the wicked turn from his way and live. Turn back, turn back from your evil ways! Why then will you die, O house of Israel?” (Eze 33:11)
“For I have no pleasure in the death of anyone who dies,” declares the Lord GOD. “Therefore, repent and live.”(Eze 18:32)
“Turn to Me and be saved, all the ends of the earth; For I am God, and there is no other.” (Isa 45:22)
The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. (2Pe 3:9)
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” (Joh 3:16)
There is no separation in the eyes of the Lord as He looks down upon mankind. All lives matter to Him.
I mentioned the podcasts regarding the feast of Shavuot or Pentecost. This is so closely connected to these events and also in chapter 19 when the Hebrews finally make it to Sinai. It shows conclusively the Lord's intention that all men, of any race, or any color, can have a chance to decide for Messiah Jesus, receive the Holy Spirit, and be the Lord's disciples. Here's the link to the those lessons - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/?s=shavuot
I also mentioned I will provide the link to the article written by the Christian pastor on the southside of Chicago. He shows that there is a purposeful ignoring of the horrible deaths by gun violence weekend after weekend on the southside. Jethro advised Moses to pick men who would be judges and one characteristic of such a man is a hatred for dishonest gain. This may not mean money. It could mean "political points" to bolster their image as a mayor, governor, senator, etc. This is what is happening in Chicago and it goes against the foundation of Western society's judicial system founded in Exod. 18. Here's the link to the article - https://www.foxnews.com/us/highland-park-shooting-chicago-pastor-calls-justice-violence-ridden-community-south-side
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In lesson 65 we again turn our attention to Jacob’s brother Esau. His name (עֵשָׂו H6215 pronounced EE SAV) in Hebrew means rough or hairy from the Gesenius Hebrew Lexicon. When Esav is born it says …
When her days to be delivered were fulfilled, behold, there were twins in her womb. Now the first came forth red, all over like a hairy garment; and they named him Esau.
(Gen 25:24-25)
So Jacob’s brother was born "esav" and "edom" or hairy and red. It’s like Edom, red, becomes Esav’s nickname. Esav is said to be the father of the Edomites, the red people, coming from the fact that Esav was probably was a hairy baby covered with red hair.
In this lesson we will begin to see how Esav and his hatred for his brother Jacob carries throughout the history of Israel; it carries even into Jesus’ day in surprising ways. Of course we missed it since we are so disconnected from our Jewish roots and we read the Bible in English and don’t understand the Hebrew or Greek. Also, few teach the Bible in its historical context. Once we reconnect the word to its historical context the Lord enriches and expands our understanding that is deeply meaningful.
In this podcast I mentioned that I’d provide a link to an article on the Edomites. I think this will only add to your understanding and knowledge. Here’s the link - https://www.gotquestions.org/Edom-in-the-Bible.html
A second link is to the vidcast on the feast of Purim (H6332 Pooreem פּוּרִים lots (as by means of a broken piece) – casting lots). In this video Bible study we will discover awesome connections to Jacob and Esau and the Edomites and the Amalekites but also to Jesus and perhaps even the end times and the Day of the Lord. Here's the link - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/truth-nuggets-15-vidcast-purim-not-by-chance-but-by-design/?token=bde2fde2d0c848fcba88d12d1f3354df
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
We continue our study about Esau (E SAV in Hebrew) and Edom, means red, which becomes Esav’s nickname. He is father of the Edomites, the red people, and a clan of the Edomites called the Amalekites. We will continue our study to see how Esav and his hatred for his brother Jacob carries throughout the history of Israel; it carries even into Jesus’ day in surprising ways. It even carries to the book of Revelation and you can add to your study by accessing this vidcast - Torah Nugget #15 on the feast of Purim (H6332 Pooreem פּוּרִים lots (as by means of a broken piece) – casting lots). This amazing study connects Esau and Edom to the Great RED Dragon in Revelation 11. Here's the link - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/truth-nuggets-15-vidcast-purim-not-by-chance-but-by-design/?token=bde2fde2d0c848fcba88d12d1f3354df
I mentioned in this podcast to watch video #9 in the video Bible study series, “Five Small Stones.” I actually urge you to watch all 11 videos – they are only 5 minutes in length barring the opening and end. Here’s the link to all 11 episodes and the one you want to watch is #9 – here’s the link - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/?s=five+small
Here's a link to an article on the Edomites. I think this will only add to your understanding and knowledge. Here’s the link - https://www.gotquestions.org/Edom-in-the-Bible.html
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Jacob camps out and has an awesome dream. The dream is of a ladder from the earth to the dwelling of the Lord God - in Hebrew we'd say Bet El or the House of God or the Dwelling Place of God or His Abode. There are spiritual beings going up and down the ladder. Hmm. Angels right? But, the Hebrew word for angels means messengers or even those deputed by the Lord. Deputed means to be sent out to complete a task. Could it be that these angels are God's deputies. Those going down the ladder are headed out to do their assigned task. Those coming up are His deputies who have done their work and are returned to Bet El, the dwelling place of God. Perhaps. We'll study the Hebrew and see how this fits the conceptual meaning of the Hebrew word meaning messenger that we say are angels.
But the ladder. What's this about? I offer one view. Perhaps there are others. What does it mean? The way to the "tree of life, the way back to Paradise, the way back to ABBA our Father is closed. We can't go back. Is the Lord teaching us that there is a way home for us? Is this a prediction for the future? Jesus' own words seem to verify that He is showing Jacob the future - the coming of one who will be the way back to the Father as in John 14:6. Jesus said He is the ladder in John 1:51. He said He will be lifted up like standard, like a sign, like a ladder in John 3:14. As the ladder, as Jesus is lifted up as the way home He will draw all men to Him to have the chance to return to the Father through Jesus. It again seems we have another proof that all scripture in Jesus' day, the Hebrew Scriptures or the Old Testament, testify of the coming Messiah, the coming Savior, the one who will be set up as the only WAY back home.
In the podcast I mentioned three links I'd provide. Link 1 - a Christian scholarly article on the concept of angels. I recommend when you read it substitute the word angel and say MESSENGER. Here's link #1 -
https://www.gotquestions.org/angels-Bible.html
The 2nd link is to a Jewish scholarly article on God's MESSENGERS. In this article you'll see how the rabbis years after Jesus' ascension started making up more fantasy about angels. Much of their notions and the mistaken ideas of the so-called church scholars has led to our notions today of angels which is totally different than what the Bible MESSENGERS are really like. Here's link #2 -
https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/angels/
The final link is to episode 9 in the Bible study video series, "Five Small Stones." These are five minute Bible study videos and in episode 9 we ask what does Paul mean in the two verses below.
For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. (Rom 10:4)
"Therefore let it be known to you, brethren, that through Him forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you, and through Him everyone who believes is freed from all things, from which you could not be freed through the Law of Moses. (Act 13:38-39)
Is it possible the ladder is the way God will establish so we can all return to Him? Is the ladder perhaps another picture for the cross? Maybe. Here's the link to all 11 videos. Just scroll down to find #9 -
https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/?s=five+small
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Understanding Biblical geography is critical. To fully appreciate episode 12 please make sure you watch episode 11; it is the first lesson in this series, "Five Small Stones" focusing on geography. Here's the link to episode 11 -
https://youtu.be/-CbyhtEABng
In many cases knowing the geography related to a specific event only adds to our understanding of the scripture. It'll enhance our understanding. This is clearly seen as we continue to study the ancient city of Shechem in the central mountains of Israel.
Shechem was an ancient biblical city in Israel. Today, the area of Shechem is known as Tell Balata, an archaeological site near Nablus in the West Bank. The town was located between Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim in central Israel, just southeast of Samaria. The name Shechem means “shoulder” in Hebrew, which is appropriate considering its location as a pass between two mountains. (From GotQuestions.org)
See the map below for its location.
God uses this city and this location. It is totally amazing how it relates to the redemption plan of the Lord that begins with Abraham. He stops at this ancient city when he first enters Canaan after the Lord tells him to leave his family, his home, and go to the land the Lord will show him. Abraham obeyed and he comes to Shechem.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In lesson 7 we focus on the phrase of Matt 6:11, "Give us this day our daily bread." Was Jesus teaching His disciples, His talmideem תלמידים in Hebrew, something new? As Dr. Brad Young states in his amazing article, "The Lord's Prayer," (see the link below to Jerusalem Perspective, a scholarly website of Christian and Jewish Bible scholars presenting the Jewish background of the Synoptic Gospels - Matthew, Mark, and Luke) ...
"Too often, the importance of the Jewish background of the prayer and of the language that Jesus used has been overlooked or minimized. Jesus was a Jew, speaking Hebrew to his Jewish followers during the difficult days of the Roman occupation of Israel in the Second Temple Period. A modern Christian has a quite different understanding of prayer, Scripture, and faith than a Jewish teacher like Jesus, not to mention the great differences of language, culture, and history. One easily can miss the great depth of Jesus’ message, even while believing in him. Here we will try to rediscover something of the original Jewish atmosphere in which Jesus taught his followers how to approach God in prayer."
So we will reconnect again to the historical context of this prayer that Jesus taught to His disciples, His talmideem תלמידים and we will see that awesome meaning behind the simple phrase of Matt. 6:11. It will help us again pray this prayer with a new expanded understanding of this central prayer for any disciple of our Lord Jesus. Our walk as disciples of Yeshua HaMasheeiachk, Jesus the Messiah, Jesus the Christ will be enriched and strengthened.
The Lord’s Prayer 1: Introduction. Brad Young. (Note: this is part 1 of 10)
https://www.jerusalemperspective.com/2229/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
(Note - it is highly recommended that you listen to lesson 1 of this series on the Lord's prayer. I provided the link below).
I remember a time when I had hurt someone in one of my classes. I reacted to their opinion on a specific issue very harshly. Later I did learn from others in the class that 1) they did not appreciate my intense reaction to this person and 2) they knew this person was hurt and angry with me and 3) they understood why I got so angry but it was not the proper way of handling the situation. Needless to say, I hurt someone with my words. It reminded me me of ...
"The good man brings out of his good treasure what is good; and the evil man brings out of his evil treasure what is evil. But I tell you that every careless word that people speak, they shall give an accounting for it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned." (Mat 12:35-37)
Ouch! His Spirit was working in me telling me that I sinned. Something needed to happen.
On one hand, this person I hurt may have forgiven me "in his heart." He may have done this based upon what Jesus teaches that ...
"My heavenly Father will also do the same to you, if each of you does not forgive his brother from your heart." (Mat 18:35)
Many of us do this as Christians today. Someone hurt us, abused us, sinned against us and we forgive that person "from our heart," but the one who hurt us doesn't know it. For us it is a way we think we are listening to Rabbi Yeshua and living as true disciples.
On the other hand, even though this person I hurt may have "forgiven me in his heart," and I didn't know it, I was dealing with the Father and through His Spirit I was being plagued with guilt that I have not gone to this person, confessed my sin, repented, and asked for this person's forgiveness. I had already done this with the Lord. I knew I was forgiven. But, the Lord would not let me off the hook! Why? Because He taught us this ...
"Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering." (Mat 5:23-24)
He didn't mean to seek forgiveness from Him and let it all go. NO!! He is teaching clearly that I need to go to the person, confess, repent, and seek their forgiveness. I did go to that person. I did confess, repent, and I asked for this person to forgive me. I was forgiven by that person. I must say this was one of the most difficult things I have ever done. It was easy to go to the Father and confess and repent and seek forgiveness. But, doing that with the person who I sinned against, that is entirely a different matter.
So, we now return to the Lord's Prayer -
תפילת האדוי - HaTehfeelah Adonai
We will focus on the verse Matt. 6:12 where we pray that the Lord will forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors. Why use the word debt or debtors? Why didn't Jesus use the word sin and sinners? Besides that it seems as if Jesus is showing us that if we want to be forgiven by the Lord we first need to forgive. Is that what this all means? Once again, we are reading in English translated from the Greek which is translated from the Hebrew and it comes out of a totally Jewish culture of 2000 years ago. Is it possible then as we put this verse into its historical context that things will begin to make real sense? Answer! You better believe it. Moreover, we will see how it relates to the situation I described from my own life.
Links promised in this session ...
1) Brad Young's article at Jerusalem Perspective (Note - this is a pay site. Cost is $60 per year. It is a highly credible scholarly site that if you are serious about your Bible study this is one site that is a must) - https://www.jerusalemperspective.com/2300/
2) Link to lesson 1 of this series - listen to this to understand how this prayer is related to being a true disciple of Rabbi Jesus - lesson 1 on the Lord's prayer plus all links
Link 3 - Ray Vander Laan's article on "Rabbi and Talmidim" - click here for Ray's awesome article on Rabbi and Talmidim (Disciples)
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In lesson 6 of this podcast series we now focus on the phrase ...
Pray, then, in this way: Our Father who is in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done, On earth as it is in heaven. (Mat 6:9-10 NASB)
Once again we will reconnect to the Jewish culture of Jesus' day so as to learn how His disciples (talmideem in Hebrew) understood the words of the prayer Jesus taught them; the prayer He also taught us since we too have been "grafted in" to the olive tree of Israel and we too must strive daily to live and serve as true disciples of the Lord.
So what did they hear when when they prayed, "Your Kingdom come?" Certainly in those days all Jews were longing for the Messiah to come. They were longing for Him to restore Israel as a Jewish nation free from Rome. So, did the disciples "hear" these words and think of the Messiah's coming kingdom under the reign of Adonai? Or when they prayed these words did it mean something else, something more, something more profound?
We may be like other Christians who pray these words in English and think it has to do with the return of Jesus, the return of the Messiah, to bring His Kingdom to earth. But, if we are supposedly to dwell with the Lord in heaven forever and ever why bring His Kingdom to earth, right? We are all going to heaven right? So, Jesus would have a Kingdom with no one to be king for since we are all gone!
So, today for many in the church we have so many diverse ideas of the Kingdom of God. We may even think there are three Kingdoms - the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of Heaven and Jesus' Kingdom when He precisely teaches about His Kingdom. This concept in English with no connection to the Jewish culture of Jesus' day causes confusion and disagreement and does not satisfy us with a precise understanding. But, if we return to Jesus' day and hear as His disciples did, and see as His disciples did, and understand like them, then we too will grasp the meaning of the Kingdom of the Most High, the Kingdom will make sense and it will eliminate all the diverse opinions, the Kingdom of God will be something part of our lives so we are be able to walk with Jesus in a deeper and more passionate way.
In this session I mentioned an article about Peter. Remember he asked Jesus if he could leave the boat and join Jesus walking on the water. This is so critical to understand the meaning of a disciple in Jesus' day. Here's the link to the article - https://www.dropbox.com/s/wtgmaph65t3inl8/Walk%20LIke%20the%20Rabbi%20%26%20Pray%20Like%20the%20Rabbi.pdf?dl=0
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
The Hebrews go deeper and deeper into the wilderness of Sinai. To the Egyptians, and the Hebrews who had assimilated into the Egyptian worldview and culture, this was considered the area of death, disorder, danger, confusion, evil or in ancient Egyptian IZFIT. Sometimes translated into English as CHAOS. Only the narrow area of fertile around on either side of the Nile was considered the place of truth, goodness, righteousness, life, harmony, prosperity, peace. The Egyptian word for this beautiful order is MA’AT. In Egypt the king, Pharaoh, was dedicated to preserving MA’AT – order and peace – and preventing IZFIT – chaos and death – for all Egyptians. The Egyptians looked to a man who must provide this order, harmony, prosperity, and truth. What’s interesting is that God, the God of the Bible, the LORD, Adonai who is known by His name, the tetragrammaton, יהוה, pronounced mistakenly as YAHWAY but probably should pronounced YAH VAY (no W sound in Hebrew), He brings His people into the Sinai wilderness. He purposely brings them into CHAOS, into what the Egyptians believe is the land of evil, death, disorder, and danger. Why? Why is the Lord doing this? In lesson 43 in Exodus 17 we face this issue and its lesson is for them THEN and for us NOW.
In this podcast I mentioned key lessons that are related to this podcast. If you are serious about Bible study. If you are serious about your interest in the end of days, the return of Jesus, and the day of the Lord. If you want to expand your knowledge of God’s word and to understand what Jesus meant when He said that all scripture testifies of Himself, these lessons are a must. These lessons provide an expansion of the ideas of how this chapter in Exodus is possibly connected to the end of days. In chapter 17 we study the attack of the Amalekites on Israel and Rephidim. We find this has amazing connections to the feast of Purim (pronounced “poo reem”) and again in Jesus’ day all they way to Rome, Nazi Germany, and the Soviet Union and finally to the end of days and the defeat of the ultimate evil one, the enemy of Israel, the church, the one who has been always anti-Christ and anti-God. The first link (see below) is to Truth Nugget #15 on the feast of Purim as related to the end of days and the return of Messiah Yeshua. The 2nd is the link to lesson 65 in the Torah series on Genesis where we study the origins of the conflict between Jacob and Esau, between those who are anti-Christ and those who are the chosen of God. The 3rd link is to the chapter in my book on the feast of Purim. This chapter provides more depth as its related to the Truth Nugget 15.
Link 1 – https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/truth-nuggets-15-vidcast-purim-not-by-chance-but-by-design/?token=bde2fde2d0c848fcba88d12d1f3354df
Link 2 – https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/genesis-65-gen-271-289-and-361-512-anti-israel-anti-torah-and-anti-christ/?token=bed70612df49352d1c8555ff1f4a1821
Link 3 - https://www.dropbox.com/s/lm0442r2glx4djh/Esther.Haman.Purim.Jesus.pdf?dl=0
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background -
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
My recovery is going very good. I am returning to giving you new lessons in the ongoing Torah study in Genesis and Exodus. Please listen to the alert to get the details.
לך לשלום בשם ישוה אדוננו
Lecha LaShalom B'Shem Yeshua Adonai
Go in Peace in the Name of Jesus the Lord
Light of Menorah teaches the Bible in its historical context. The emphasis is on the archaeology, history, geography, customs, culture, and even the languages of the ancient Middle East. In episode 11 we start a new study and ask how does knowing the geography of Israel or the Sinai peninsula or ancient Turkey (Asia Minor) affect our understanding of God's word. Christians in the USA in the 21st century are so cutoff from this knowledge, it is, for the most part, abandoned as a focus in understanding and teaching the Bible. What we will see is that Bible geography is so critical to our understanding the word of the Lord; geography and the geographical setting of many of the events in the Bible will enhance and expand understanding in amazing ways.
In this episode we go to the ancient city of Shechem. Here we find that Abraham stops here - seems to be his first stop after entering Canaan after God promised Abraham in four promises. God promised him he'd be given land, have many descendants, will be very well known across the ages, and his seed (his descendants) will be a blessing to all the nations. God does this in Haran before Abraham and Sarah leave for the land the God will show him. Their first stop is Shechem. Consider ...
Now the LORD said to Abram (in Haran), "Go forth from your country, And from your relatives And from your father's house, To the land which I will show you (promise of a PLACE); And I will make you a great nation (promise of descendants or PEOPLE), And I will bless you, And make your name great (promise of being well known forever or a promise of POSITION); And so you shall be a blessing; And I will bless those who bless you, And the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed (promise of a PURPOSE to his life)." So Abram went forth as the LORD had spoken to him; and Lot went with him. Now Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran. Abram took Sarai his wife and Lot his nephew, and all their possessions which they had accumulated, and the persons which they had acquired in Haran, and they set out for the land of Canaan; thus they came to the land of Canaan. Abram passed through the land as far as the site of Shechem, to the oak of Moreh. Now the Canaanite was then in the land. The LORD appeared to Abram and said (God's promise of a PLACE is given at Shechem), "To your descendants I will give this land." So he built an altar there to the LORD who had appeared to him. (Gen 12:1-7)
At Shechem we "see" God support the promise of land to Abraham. Here God says this land, Canaan, will be given to Abraham and his descendants. So, what about the other promises? Will God do this at another location? NOPE. It is amazing what we are about to see in the next episodes.
Here's a great detailed article on the ancient city of Shechem and its biblical importance.
Link - https://bible.org/article/geographical-historical-spiritual-significance-shechem
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Some of the great Bible characters lied through their teeth! Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, David, Rahab all lied. And yet the Bible is silent about their SIN. God said to lie is a sin and He said it twice - once in the Ten Commandments as it relates to judicial matters to "not be a false witness" and a second time where the Lord says it precisely ...
Lev 19:11 "You shall not steal, nor deal falsely, nor lie to one another."
God does not condemn them for their obvious breaking God's command. You have to ask what is going on? Is there something we are not seeing?
Consider the real stories of Christians during WWII who lied to the Nazis to protect Jews they were hiding. Corrie Ten Bloom is one of them. She and her family lied, they saved 100's of innocent Jewish people, and she became a celebrated "righteous Gentile" among the Jewish people. She is honored among many other Gentiles, like Oscar Schindler, who did brave and heroic things to save 1000's of Jewish people from the gas chambers and death.
Corrie, in her book, "The Hiding Place," relates the events of her and her family rescuing Jews. She also shares how troubled she was that in order to save the Jews she had to LIE. She had to commit a sin. This was something that bothered her deeply.
But, in the Bible many Bible characters lie. We read in the Bible that God never calls them on the carpet. He never brings up that they broke His Torah command not to lie. Why? What is going on? Perhaps there is something more that God is showing us. Is God saying that deceptive words are not a lie if the words that mislead are done for good and not evil? Is God saying that if one deceives with words for evil intent then that is a lie? Is God saying a lie is not words that are simply deceptive but it relates to the intent, the purpose? Is God saying that one can DO THE UNLAWFUL TO PREVENT THE UNSPEAKABLE? Needless to say this is a challenging question.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
So few Christians really understand that there is a God ordained connection between Passover and Pentecost, between פֶּסַח Paysak and שָׁבוּעוֹת Shavuot. So few churches today even celebrate Pentecost. We have lost so much, we have become so disconnected from our roots, שׁוֹרָשִׁים SHORASHEEM.
One connection between Passover and Pentecost is "geographical." Passover is the time of the barley harvest. Pentecost is the time of the wheat harvest. Two harvests and both times the Torah calls them times of the First Fruits. Interesting. Paul calls Jesus the FIRST FRUITS. Is there something Paul understands that we don't. You bet. And there is so much more.
God commands a COUNTDOWN starting, in Jesus' day, on the Sunday after Passover. That was day 1 and the count if to continue for 7 Sabbath weeks - 49 days. The 50th day God commands in His Torah is the feast of Pentecost (which means 50) or שָׁבוּעוֹת Shavuot meaning weeks. God is telling us there is some awesome connection between Passover and Pentecost so much so that we are to count each day till Pentecost.
In the past religious Jews started using Psalm 67 as they did the countdown. Many still do it today. Why? In Hebrew Psalm 67 has 49 words. You can see this in the picture below. (Note - you'll see perhaps a hyphen used in the text. That does not mean one word but actually two in the original Hebrew which never used hyphens). So each day the Jewish people say a blessing to the Lord, state what day of the count it is, and recite out loud Psalm 67.
In this lesson I make the case that this is something we Christians should be doing. Why? Wait till you hear the lesson. Psalm 67 seems to have been inspired by the Lord to His ELECT, Israel, and now to us. The psalm used between Passover and Pentecost is connected to Jesus in amazing and surprising ways. It's all about Jesus and it always has been. We should do the countdown and look to the awesome feast of Pentecost. All churches should now, during the countdown, teach about Pentecost and Passover, the 1st harvest and the 2nd harvest, the 1st blessing and the 2nd blessing, the giving of the Laws of the Lord and the giving of that which completes the Law, and the coming of the Teaching of the Lord (Torah) and the coming of the Teacher, רוח הקודש, RUACH HAKODESH, the Holy Spirit. For more on all this check out these links that can be found after the picture of Psalm 67 below.
My article on the Feast of First Fruits, the Omer Count, and Shavuot - https://www.dropbox.com/s/dv38j7tx1qos4ue/d%20Lesson4..COUNTING%20THE%20DAYS...2019..107..136.pdf?dl=0
Link to the Light of Menorah podcasts, "Archaeology of Passover" - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/?s=archaeology
Link to pictures of the Chapel of the Ascension - https://www.biblewalks.com/AscensionChurch
Link to pictures of the Russian Church of the Ascension on the Mt. of Olives - https://www.biblewalks.com/russianascensionchurch
Link to pictures of Augusta Victoria and the German Lutheran Church of the Ascension - https://www.biblewalks.com/augustavictoria
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
This is stated precisely in the Hebrew in Exod. 15:26.
Kee Anee Yahvay Rofecha
I am the Lord your healer - כי אני יהוה רפאך
For many (Jew and Gentile alike) it means you simply can pray to the Lord and He MUST heal you of cancer, Covid, a skin rash, a cold, whatever - as long as you are a true believer. Is that true? Does God promise that? All you need do is NAME IT AND CLAIM IT? On top of that if a so-called Christian dies from Covid or Cancer since they weren't healed it means they were not "saved," they were not true believers, right?? Come and check this out in lesson 41 in the Exodus series.
After the Hebrews cross Yam Suf they enter the Wilderness of Shur. If we know where this is it helps us as we search for the location of Mt. Sinai. The Bible once again has specific geographical facts that give us the location. See the map below ...
So, if you think Mt. Sinai is in Saudi Arabia, the REAL location of the Wilderness of Shur implies that the theory, that it is in Saudi Arabia, is very problematic.
An excellent article dealing with this topic can be found at the website for the Associates for Biblical Research by Dr. Gary Byers. This is a Christian MINISTRY to promote the truth of the Bible, it's God given veracity, as found in archaeology and THE TRUTH. Here's the link ... https://biblearchaeology.org/research/chronological-categories/exodus-era/3191-new-evidence-from-egypt-on-the-location-of-the-exodus-sea-crossing-part-i Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
It's over. God's wrath is fully played out against Egypt and the gods of Egypt. We now begin the journey to the PROMISED LAND. But before we head out the whole group of Hebrews and Moses sing a song, the Song by the Sea.
Is this the Song of Moses as referenced in Rev. 15:1-3 ...'
Then I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvelous, seven angels who had seven plagues, which are the last, because in them the wrath of God is finished. And I saw something like a sea of glass mixed with fire, and those who had been victorious over the beast and his image and the number of his name, standing on the sea of glass, holding harps of God. And they sang the song of Moses, the bond-servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, "Great and marvelous are Your works, O Lord God, the Almighty; Righteous and true are Your ways, King of the nations! (Rev 15:1-3)
This is the only place in the entire Bible where one finds the phrase "the song of Moses." So, what is this song? Some say it is the Song by the Sea we are studying in Exod. 15. But, the Bible doesn't say that. It doesn't even call it the Song by the Sea.
So, we find that many have OPINIONS and VIEWS as to what is the Song of Moses and say it is the Song by the Sea. However, there are places where the phrase "the Song of Moses" is used. It is found in Jewish literature and Torah commentary. All of a sudden we see that John, who is a Jew, when he, under the Lord's inspiration, wrote the Revelation, uses the phrase "the song of Moses" that seemingly was well understood in Second Temple Judaism. Then it was simply called THE SONG. It so happens it refers to Deut. 32:1-43.
So we have two songs. The Song by the Sea and the the song God commands Moses to write down and teach all Israel. So, which one is the Song of Moses? This is very interesting.
In this lesson I tell of an awesome day for me and my wife Robin in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. I was taking Bible geography class for my masters program and we stopped outside the Jewish gift shop, Shosharim. Shosharim means "the roots." See the picture below.
It is owned by Rabbi Moses Kempinski and his brother. The rabbi is a great guy and loves to talk the Word of the Lord with Jews and Gentiles. He wants all to learn their ROOTS, their SHOSHARIM, the Jewish Roots of their faith both for those practicing Judaism and Christians. Our class was outside the shop and we got into an awesome dialogue with Moses - in Hebrew Moses is pronounced MOSHAY. See the picture of Rabbi Kempinski below.
Rabbi Kempinski then asked us a question. The question was where did the phrase "saved by grace" come from? The answer was so so awesome. It literally blew me away. It is related to the Song by the Sea. Once again we see the truth of God's word and that God doesn't change and is the same then, now and forever. God's word is firmly settled in the universe. What was true today, was true in Paul's day, David's day, and in 1446 B.C. by Yam Suf, the Sea of Reeds.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Abraham had two sons, Ishmael and Isaac. One was chosen by the Lord to be the child of promise. This happened again. Isaac had two sons, Esau and Jacob. The Lord has already chosen Jacob and not Esau. It seems that Esau and his natural born character did not qualify him to be the one through whom the promises made to Abraham for the entire world would be given. It was Jacob. In the events of their lives we begin to see this – the Lord seems to want us to see the boys and their character. Jacob, the 2nd born and not the 1st born, was the one.
One event so many of us recall is when Jacob was cooking the red delicious stew and Esau comes back from some adventure in the wild. But, there is something we don’t see – God inspires Moses to use a chiasm in the telling of the tale. If we don’t know what a chiasm is we miss the expanded ideas that the Lord is trying to teach us. The chiastic structure is used by the Lord to make a very clear and specific point. It is the crux of the entire matter of Esau and Jacob and why the Lord picked Jacob.
Links to articles and videos to learn about CHIASTIC LITERARY STRUCTURES:
Great website to learn the basics of chiastic structures -
https://www.bible-discernments.com/joshua/whatisachiasm.html
A website that contains many examples of chiasms -
https://www.chiasmusxchange.com/explanatory-notes/
A short video discussing chiams - well done and good "picture" description -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yn2pIkmOKpY
Link to the Light of Menorah video entitled “The Mirror of Passover.” The video addresses CHIASMS at 28 minutes 5 seconds.
https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-2zqcj-11e731b
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Lesson 39 Part 3 – ALL SCRIPTURE TESTIFIES OF ME – Jesus says this sometime between 24-30 A.D. and we read it in John 5:39. All they had then was the Hebrew Scriptures. So those who first heard Jesus, who did not have the New Testament, it was clear Jesus was saying that the Torah and even Exodus 14, the chapter we are studying in lesson 39, testify of Jesus. How? Get ready. Get your seat belts on. The rescue at ים סוף Yam Suf – the sea of Reeds – connects us to Jesus and the final victory of His over death.
Also, we again encounter the ANGEL OF GOD or the ANGEL OF THE LORD. In lesson 32 in Genesis we dealt with this in detail and showed how the Angel of the Lord is GOD, a manifestation of God to us in the flesh so that we will not die yet "see the Lord." Here’s the link to lesson 32 in Genesis dealing with the Angel of the Lord. Link - https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-zfndi-fd62d0
In part 2 of lesson 39 we will study how this relates to the dogma of the Trinity. We say there are three PERSONS in one God. Once again we are reading it in English when it was actually written in Greek almost 2000 years ago. The Greek word that we translate as PERSON today is not what the Greek word means then and in the New Testament. It means FACE or mask. Just like when Jesus said to Philip in John 14 that if we SEE Jesus, one might say see His face, then we have SEEN the Father. We have seen the face of the Father. And, we did not die. God told Moses that we can’t see Him or we will die. God actually said in the Hebrew that we can not see His FACES! We can see a face of God, like Jesus. We can see another face of God like the Angel of the Lord. But, we can’t see His FACES – like all of them together. The Greek word we translated as person, if we keep it in its original meaning as FACE, the dogma of the Trinity becomes a concept we can perhaps begin to grasp. Jesus is God. He is one with God. He is one of the faces of God. When we see Jesus we see God, a manifestation of God Himself.
Who is the Egyptian god of the wind? This god is named Shu. Shu is the awesome god in Egyptian mythology, the wind, who held up the sky.
Did Pharaoh think that it was Shu, the god of the wind, that blew all night to create a path through the chaos of the sea so he could then capture the Hebrews and Moses and return them to slavery. Did Pharaoh think his gods were fighting for him? It seems likely and it fits so well in this narrative. To read more about this Egyptian god here are a few good links …
Link 1 - https://ancientegyptonline.co.uk/shu/
Link 2 - http://www.touregypt.net/featurestories/shu.htm
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In part 2 of lesson 39 we return to Exod. 14 and study Pharaoh’s heart, God’s glory, and how to “know” the Lord. We read the Bible in English and we read the words heart, glory, and the phrase “to know.” If we stay in the English we miss so much as to the actual Hebrew. God wants all Egyptians "to know" Him and it connects us to Jesus when He said ...
"Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. "Many will say to Me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?' "And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS.' (Mat 7:21-23)
Jesus, God, is saying the same thing to us. He wants not just for us to believe in Him but to know Him. But, what does it mean? What did it mean in Exod. 14? What did Jesus mean? He is God and He doesn't change as in Mal. 3:6. So, we need to grasp what God wants when He say He wants all Egypt, all Israel, and all nations to KNOW Him.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
There is simply so much to learn and study in Exodus 14. The main event is the unbelievable crossing of the sea and how God rescues Israel. I will split lesson 39 into three parts. Shown below is a brief idea of the concepts taught in each part.
Part 1 – where is Mt. Sinai? Does the Bible assist us in our pursuit of Biblical archaeology? Does it provide facts and real evidence to help in archaeological discovery? Eilat Mazar used the Bible to begin her dig to discover David's palace. In her own words ...
"There can be little doubt that King David had a palace. The Bible tells us that Hiram of Tyre (who would later help King Solomon build the Temple) constructed the palace for David: 'King Hiram of Tyre sent envoys to David, with cedar logs, carpenters and stonemasons; and they built a palace for David' (2 Samuel 5:11). Nine years ago I wrote an article in BAR suggesting where, in my opinion, the remains of King David’s palace might lie. I proposed looking in the northern part of the most ancient area of Jerusalem, known as the City of David." ( “Did I Find King David’s Palace?” by Eilat Mazar originally appeared in BAR, January/February 2006. The article was first republished in Bible History Daily on September 7, 2012. ) This is so amazing that the Bible led Eilat Mazar to the place to dig to find David's palace. In part 1 we will see how once again God in His word gives us enough details that helps us as we try to find Mt. Sinai.
Part 2 – Pharaoh’s heart, God’s glory, and how to “know” the Lord. We read the Bible in English and we read the words heart, glory, and the phrase “to know.” If we stay in the English we miss so much as to the actual Hebrew. God wants all Egyptians "to know" Him and it connects us to Jesus when He said ...
"Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. "Many will say to Me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?' "And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS.' (Mat 7:21-23)
Jesus, God, is saying the same thing to us. He wants not just for us to believe in Him but to know Him. But, what does it mean? What did it mean in Exod. 14? What did Jesus mean? He is God and He doesn't change as in Mal. 3:6. So, we need to grasp what God wants when He say He wants all Egypt, all Israel, and all nations to KNOW Him.
Part 3 – ALL SCRIPTURE TESTIFIES OF ME – Jesus says this sometime between 24-30 A.D. and we read it in John 5:39. All they had then was the Hebrew Scriptures. So those who first heard Jesus, who did not have the New Testament, it was clear Jesus was saying that the Torah and even Exodus 14, the chapter we are studying in lesson 39, testify of Jesus. How? Get ready. Get your seat belts on. The rescue at ים סוף
Yam Suf – the sea of Reeds – connects us to Jesus and the final victory of His over death.
Also, we again encounter the ANGEL OF GOD or the ANGEL OF THE LORD. In lesson 32 in Genesis we dealt with this in detail and showed how the Angel of the Lord is GOD, a manifestation of God to us in the flesh so that we will not die yet "see the Lord." Here’s the link to lesson 32 in Genesis dealing with the Angel of the Lord. Link - https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-zfndi-fd62d0
In part 2 of lesson 39 we will study how this relates to the dogma of the Trinity. We say there are three PERSONS in one God. Once again we are reading it in English when it was actually written in Greek almost 2000 years ago. The Greek word that we translate as PERSON now is not what the Greek word means then and in the New Testament. In the New Testament and for the early church fathers it means FACE. Just like when Jesus said to Philip in John 14 that if we SEE Jesus, one might say see His face, then we have SEEN the Father. It's the Greek word we translated as person. But if we keep it in its original meaning as FACE, the dogma of the Trinity becomes a concept we can perhaps begin to grasp. Check it out.
In part 1 I mentioned a map that might help you in the complex discussion we will encounter. The map is shown below. I highly recommend you use the map for this podcast. It’ll be very helpful to grasp the details and the specifics presented. Here’s the map.
Also, in this lesson, I mention the journey of Ezra as he and about 6000-7000 Jews return from Susa in ancient Babylon to Jerusalem. The map of that journey is shown below. Again, this will be a good resource to give you a better understanding of the lesson. Here’s the “Ezra Journey” map.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Does the Bible, specifically the New Testament, prove that Jesus changed everything? Did Jesus do away with the old law, the TORAH, and start a new Sabbath on Sunday? It seems that if you study the New Testament in ENGLISH and separate it from the historical and ancient cultural context the answer would be yes. However, the Bible was clearly meant for those first disciples like John and Mark and Matthew and Paul and Mary. God gave them His word so they understood it and passed it down to us. So, one might say they are the first audience. But, they are all Jewish, even Luke. There is a strong argument that Luke was Jewish. It isn't conclusive but very strong. Check it out at this link - https://www.levitt.com/essays/luke
Thus, these Jewish believers lived in a Jewish culture 2000 years ago and they perhaps saw things and understood things a lot differently than us. For on thing we have proof that the early church, those first believers, met for the Sabbath on Friday evening to Saturday evening. Paul F. Bradshaw and Lawrence A. Hoffman, The Making of Jewish and Christian Worship (Notre Dame, 1991). And,
CHRISTIAN HISTORY, "When did the Christian church switch the Sabbath from Saturday to Sunday?" Link: https://www.christianitytoday.com/history/search/?query=issue%2037 ELESHA COFFMAN
In Video 3 we will again put the Bible in its historical context. Once again we will study His word taking in account the ancient Jewish culture of those first disciples, the first Messianic believers. When we do and study the GREEK and not the English, we find there is a compelling alternative understanding to verses that supposedly suggest Jesus changed everything. The three verses we will study are shown below take from the NASB version.
Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I directed the churches of Galatia, so do you also. On the first day of every week each one of you is to put aside and save, as he may prosper, so that no collections be made when I come. When I arrive, whomever you may approve, I will send them with letters to carry your gift to Jerusalem; (1Co 16:1-3)
On the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break bread, Paul began talking to them, intending to leave the next day, and he prolonged his message until midnight. There were many lamps in the upper room where we were gathered together. And there was a young man named Eutychus sitting on the window sill, sinking into a deep sleep; and as Paul kept on talking, he was overcome by sleep and fell down from the third floor and was picked up dead. But Paul went down and fell upon him, and after embracing him, he said, "Do not be troubled, for his life is in him." When he had gone back up and had broken the bread and eaten, he talked with them a long while until daybreak, and then left. They took away the boy alive, and were greatly comforted. (Act 20:7-12)
I, John, your brother and fellow partaker in the tribulation and kingdom and perseverance which are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like the sound of a trumpet, saying, "Write in a book what you see, and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus and to Smyrna and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to Laodicea." (Rev 1:9-11)
This is only a short introduction. It is a deep and expansive subject that can not be completely addressed in a 40 to 60 minutes video. Thus, to continue your study on the Sabbath I strongly recommend the following books and resources ...
Kiesz, John. "A History of the Sabbath and Sunday." The Bible Sabbath Association (January 1, 1983). Free download at this link -
http://www.truthontheweb.org/KieszHistory.htm
Nichols, J. T. “The Origin of the Hebrew Sabbath.” The Old and New Testament Student, vol. 12, no. 1, 1891, pp. 36–42. JSTOR, www.jstor.org/stable/3157542
Hay, Malcolm. "THE ROOTS OF CHRISTIAN ANTI SEMITISM." Available at Amazon.
Dr. Shumel Safrai, “The Jewish People in the First Century: Historical Geography, Political History, Social, Cultural and Religious...Vols. 1 and 2.”
Bacchiocchi, Samule. "From Sabbath to Sunday. (1977)." Rome, Italy. Pontifical Gregorial University Press. Free download at this link - http://www.anym.org/pdf/from_Sabbath_to_Sunday_samuele_bacchiocchi.pdf
Encyclopedia Judaica. 1972. Keter Publishing. Jerusalem:Israel.
"Feasts and the Holidays, the Mo’edim." https://hebrew4christians.com/Holidays/holidays.html
Flusser, David. "Judaism and the Origins of Christianity." 1988. Magness Press. Jerusalem.
Hayyim, Schauss. "The Jewish Festivals." © 1938
"The Jewish Encyclopedia." www.jewishencyclopedia.com
Levine, Lee. 2005. "The Ancient Synagogue: the First Thousand Years." 2nd Edition. New Haven: Yale University Press.
Stern, David. Jewish New Testament Commentary. 1996. Jewish New Testament Publications. Clarksfield:Maryland.
Stern, David. The Complete Jewish Bible. 1998. Jewish New Testament
Wilson, Marvin. Our Father Abraham. 1989. W.B. Eerdman’s. Grand Rapids:MI. Contours of Hebrew Thought.
Finally, here's a link to a chapter of one of my books I did for my classes. The content is based upon the sources above. Link -
https://www.dropbox.com/s/qdycam9yad7ekax/e%20Lesson5..signbetweenus..2019..137..188.pdf?dl=0
A second link is related to Paul meeting in Troas on the FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK. Here's the link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/rmkqxbq18k3cmeq/SABBATH%20IN%20TROAS%20AND%20REVELATION.pdf?dl=0
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
SABBATH SERIES - VIDEO 2 PART 1
Over the last 5 to 10 years I have noticed Christians becoming interested in the Jewish Passover Meal – the Seder. Many say they see how it connects to Jesus. Christians also see how Jesus is also related to Passover. The lambs were sacrificed on the same day the Lamb of God was sacrificed or Jesus was crucified. Matter of fact I teach a course on the feasts of the Lord found in Leviticus 23 and how they testify of Jesus. Paul teaches us this. Consider the text …
Therefore no one is to act as your judge in regard to food or drink or in respect to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath day-- things which are a mere shadow of what is to come; but the substance belongs to Christ. (Col 2:16-17)
The feasts are shadows of something. Something is casting a “shadow”over the feasts. What? Who? Jesus of course. He is the substance of the shadow or that which makes up the shadow.
But, as we have seen in Video 1 parts 1 and 2 the greatest of all the Lord’s feasts, actually, appointed times set by Him, is the Sabbath, or in Hebrew, שַׁבָּת Shabbat. See below. Here’s the links to Video 1 parts 1 and 2.
Video 1 part 1 – https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-yk53v-11f50a7
Video 2 part 2 – https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-u84gj-11f5248
God has created an appointed time called the Sabbath on the 7th day of each week. It is a holy TIME; it is 24 hours long and not about just going to church. During this set aside time, or holy time, the Lord commands us to have a special separate meeting during this 24 hour holy time as in Leviticus 23:3. The Jews do a synagogue service and from this the “church” followed suit and did a church service.
But Jesus said …
“You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me.” (Joh 5:39)
Jesus said this between 24-30 A.D. and all they had was the Hebrew Scriptures – a.k.a. the Old Testament. So, the Sabbath must be a SHADOW of things to come. And the Sabbath MUST testify of Jesus. But how? It is easy to “see” Jesus in Passover. It is easy to see how the Jewish Seder relates to Jesus. But שַׁבָּת Shabbat? How? How is Jesus connected to this special, set aside, or holy 24 hour period? Let’s go study this in Video 2 parts 1 and 2 and 3. So, ready? Come let’s go.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
SABBATH SERIES - VIDEO 1 PART 1
Do you do the Sabbath? It is one of the Ten Commandments, so you'd better. But, do you do it on Sunday? Or, do you do it on Saturday where some might say it is the "Jewish" Sabbath? Who is right? In this video we will not debate whether the Sabbath is Sunday or Saturday. This debate has been going on for 1000's of years and I don't think I can end the debate with a short 30 minute or 60 minute video.
However, what is the Sabbath? What do you think the Sabbath is? Is it simply when you go to church? Oh no, you say, it is about church and resting, right? God said we are to rest. So why do it on Saturday or even Sunday? "Why can't I have a day of rest when I want?," some might say. But, what if He never said to rest? What if He meant something else? What's the 7th day have to do about it? Is that all it's about - going to church and, perhaps, taking a nap? Or is there something bigger that God is having us understand and practice? I suggest to you that the Sabbath - שָׁבַת Shabbat in Hebrew - is much much bigger.
Both groups, ones who practice שָׁבַת Shabbat on Saturday and those who practice שָׁבַת Shabbat on Sunday, are not being taught what this feast of the Lord actually is. This is my experience after growing up in Sunday churches and later attending Messianic congregations. No one is teaching the awesomeness of this feast, this "appointed time" of יהוה Yahvay, the Lord. Yes, it is a feast of the Lord by the very words of God. Don't believe me, you can read it for your self in Lev. 23:1-3 and you'll notice that the Sabbath is 1st in the list. There are 8 festivals of the Lord - they are not Jewish feasts. They belong to the Lord.
So, come. Join us. Study what you've been missing. Come and let the Lord help us understand the awesome of His שָׁבַת Shabbat so that He can enhance our walk of faith with המשיח ישוע, HaMaschiach Yeshua, Jesus the Messiah, Jesus the Christ. Let's us return to our first love. Sing along with us, "Ahshuv Ahlecka - Coming Back to You." Link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZoMT2fqnQyM
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Moses does not want to return to Egypt and do what the Lord God wants him to do. In this lesson we study Exod. 4:1-12 and hear Moses’ second, third, and fourth objections. In the next lesson we will finally get to Moses’ fifth objection and it will be clear in his own words that he does not any part of this. Would you?
One objection Moses brings up on this lesson is he can’t speak very well; it seems Torah is implying he may have a speech problem. It can not be proved if Moses did have a physical impairment or stuttered. Those are only opinions. Putting aside speculation we see Moses has an excuse but God has the answer. What is significant about this part of the events we are studying is at this exact part of the events at the burning bush, Moses is declared God’s prophet.
At this point I wanted to make sure we study the real definition of a prophet of God. Today Christians say a prophet is one who foretells the future only. I hear this over and over again on the TV or the radio where we here about the end times, the rapture, and that prophets predict the future. This is not Biblical. A prophet, if one studies the Bible very carefully is simply God’s spokesman, one who proclaims God’s word. Better is to say a prophet as per the Bible is one who PROCLAIMS the words given by God or one who PREDICTS if God commands the prediction. So a prophet will predict and foretell the future. It is NOT their major duty as God's spokesman (or woman!). Consider the answer to the question of who or what is a prophet from Judaism 101 …
What is a Prophet?
(Accessed 4/18/2021 @ https://www.jewfaq.org/prophet.htm)
Many people today think of a prophet as any person who sees the future. While the gift of prophecy certainly includes the ability to see the future, a prophet is far more than just a person with that ability.
A prophet is basically a spokesman for G-d, a person chosen by G-d to speak to people on G-d's behalf and convey a message or teaching. Prophets were role models of holiness, scholarship and closeness to G-d. They set the standards for the entire community.
The Hebrew word for a prophet, navi (Nun-Beit-Yod-Alef) comes from the term niv sefatayim meaning "fruit of the lips," which emphasizes the prophet's role as a speaker.
A prophet is not necessarily a man. Scripture records the stories of seven female prophets, listed below, and the Talmud reports that Sarah's prophetic ability was superior to Abraham's.
According to some views, prophecy is not a gift that is arbitrarily conferred upon people; rather, it is the culmination of a person's spiritual and ethical development. When a person reaches a sufficient level of spiritual and ethical achievement, the Shechinah (Divine Spirit) comes to rest upon him or her. Likewise, the gift of prophecy leaves the person if that person lapses from his or her spiritual and ethical perfection.
The greatest of the prophets was Moses. It is said that Moses saw all that all of the other prophets combined saw, and more. Moses saw the whole of the Torah, including the Prophets and the Writings that were written hundreds of years later. All subsequent prophecy was merely an expression of what Moses had already seen. Thus, it is taught that nothing in the Prophets or the Writings can be in conflict with Moses' writings, because Moses saw it all in advance.
The Talmud states that the writings of the prophets will not be necessary in the World to Come, because in that day, all people will be mentally, spiritually and ethically perfect, and all will have the gift of prophecy.
So here in Exodus 4 Moses is told he will be given words to speak to Israel and to Egypt. Moses is now a prophet. It isn’t what Moses is but what he does that makes him a prophet.
For the most part Moses is the greatest prophet ever in the Hebrew scriptures. However, God gives his spokesman, Moses, words to speak that are a prediction. Moses influenced by the Lord predicts the coming of the Messiah in Deut. 18:15-18. Messiah will be like Moses and Moses will be like the Messiah. We have a mirror image.
A great website to study our Jewish roots is www.Hebrew4Christians.com. At this website one can find an awesome detailed article that the Bible relates Moses and the future Messiah. The Jewish rabbis caught it and we learn from them. Here’s the link to the article. Link - click here for the article at Hebrew4Christians
In this lesson I mentioned a picture I found on the internet which is a great way to show how the Bible connects the first redeemer, Moses, to the ultimate redeemer, Messiah Jesus, to each other. See the picture below. The verses verifying each of the statements are easy to find and is a worthwhile task for you.
I also mentioned a vidcast available from Light of Menorah. This video lesson entitled, “The Mirror of Passover,” a video lesson going into this connection in a deeper and more complete way. It is clear, God is saying to us that the Exodus and the Passover and the Lamb of God and the Cross are intimately connected. We can not have one without the other. Here’s the link to the video - click here for the video lesson, The Mirror of Passover
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In lesson 3 we will focus on Resurrection Sunday. In session 2 we reconnected to our Jewish roots and found an amazing "picture" that relates the 1st Palm Sunday to the events of the 1st Exodus. The 1st Palm Sunday - if it was a Sunday happened in 30 A.D. - would have been Nissan 10. The day in Exod. 12:1-3 when the fathers of each household would pick the Passover lamb. We learned that the Father, our God, chose His son Jesus on the 1st Palm Sunday, on Nissan 10, as His LAMB OF GOD. What an amazing picture. And, when we go to the next Sunday, the day Jesus rose from the dead, we will see another "picture" from the foundation of Christianity, our Jewish roots, that will add to and enhance our understanding of this explosive event in the doctrine of all Christian believers, the Resurrection of Jesus the Bread of Life and the First Fruits of those who will also rise from the dead.
Links for this lesson ...
Rev. Ferret's video - where is Gethsemane? - filmed on location in Israel -
https://www.dropbox.com/s/mh36zp9i5ta7g74/Gat%20Sheminim%20Real%20Story%20v6.mp4?dl=0
Joel Kramer's video - the location of Jesus' trial - filmed on location in Israel -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fx3qtmik_Fg&list=PL0xmKFdTYCJUBPesnN4vK9_uFyf540NsB&index=10&t=0s
Ray Vander Laan's article on the New Tomb - https://www.thattheworldmayknow.com/a-new-tomb
Pictures of tombs in Jesus' day - https://www.dropbox.com/sh/h79kcqbbeb7vf65/AADxSidFpnf0jn3aHSXfZaJpa?dl=0
Dr. Barkey - video of Dr. Barkey proving that the Garden Tomb is not the tomb of Jesus - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dndRgZGvNNM
Rev. Ferret's video - THE MIRROR OF PASSOVER -
https://youtu.be/ipaeu7AQZ8Y
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Jesus is the Lamb of God and the original Bible never says He is the Passover Lamb. This is clear in the ancient Greek manuscripts like Codex Sinaiticus dated to 330 A.D. We said He is the Passover Lamb. It is easy to see why but the Bible like the NASB or the KJV, the best translations from the ancient Greek and the Hebrew, state Jesus is the Passover and NOT the Passover Lamb in 1 Cor. 5:7. But, if we see Jesus as distinct from the Passover Lamb, if we see Jesus as the Lamb of God, these lambs on Passover create an amazing picture of God's redemption of His people, Israel, through Moses the first redeemer, and God's ultimate redemption of Jew and Gentile, the whole world, through Messiah Jesus the Ultimate Redeemer. Once again God has created an amazing literary structure in His Bible that creates a mirror to help us see His awesome truth. Let us now study the Mirror of Passover and see the centrality of the Cross from Genesis to Revelation.
This is part 2 of session 4. Here we will ask why unleavened bread? Christians say that leaven represents sin. Well, yes and no. We are not ancient Hebrews. We never lived in ancient Egypt 3500 year ago. If we did we'd see something totally different. Why? Because the Bible was written to those Hebrews who were slaves in Egypt and prior to their slavery had adopted the ways and the gods of Egypt. We need to hear what they heard and see what they saw and try and understand a they did so we can rightly understand what God is teaching us and telling. This has a direct impact on the bread Jesus took and said that it was HIS body. This is too amazing.
And we will get into the issue of what day did Jesus have His Last Supper, the Passover Meal of the Messiah? If you read Matt 26:17 and say that it is correct then Jesus died on a Saturday if you think Jesus died in 33 A.D. - it results in us contradicting the Bible! And what about the Last Supper - did Jesus do a Seder? He never did!! He couldn't have. Why? He is God and He gave us the Torah and He never changes and will never go against His own commands. Just because some in Jesus' day did the Passover meal on days they decided were right, we don't listen to their ideas that are not connected to God's word. So hang to your seats. This session will blow you away.
Here's the links for articles and a video that will enhance your studies in this 4th session.
LINK - article on the Egyptian god Amun - https://www.ancient.eu/amun/
LINK - article on the Egyptian god Ra - https://www.arce.org/resource/ra-creator-god-ancient-egypt
LINK - article on the location of the upper room - https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/biblical-sites-places/biblical-archaeology-sites/jesus-last-supper-tomb-of-david/
LINK - article on the origins of the Seder - https://schechter.edu/the-origins-of-the-seder/
LINK - video lesson entitled "The Mirror of Passover." This takes this series and expands upon it even further. The Passover of Adonai is an amazing event that seems to provide a mirror the Lamb of God and the Passover Lamb and the new creation in Genesis and the new creation in the book of Revelation - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipaeu7AQZ8Y&t=836s
In session 4 (this session is in two parts due to the tremendous amount of material to cover) we will focus on the Last Supper. We will see how knowing ancient Egypt enhances our understanding of not only the Passover meal of Israel but how it helps us see the Last Supper, the Passover meal of the Messiah, in a deeper and more intense way.
Another concept we will study is the Jewish Seder. What is a Seder and when did it develop? You will be amazed to see that Jesus NEVER did a Seder and, even the Jewish people prior to 70 A.D., never did a Seder. Again, we are dealing with real history and we will see that the Jewish Seder that we know today had its beginnings in Jesus' day and before. But, Jewish sources show clearly that the Seder was established after 70 A.D. as a response of the rabbis to figure out what to do now that the Temple was destroyed and they could not do the Passover meal as commanded by God in the place He commanded, in Jerusalem. After 70 A.D. Passover and the Appointed time of Unleavened Bread was not a pilgrimage event any more. Now the rabbis sad you could do it in your house anywhere to keep the feast alive. On top of that we will also see that Jesus did not do a Passover meal as commanded in Exodus 12. His meal was something unique and distinct but it was only understood in light of the Passover meal.
Here's the links for articles and a video that will enhance your studies in this 4th session.
LINK - article on the Egyptian god Amun - https://www.worldhistory.org/amun/
LINK - article on the Egyptian god Ra - https://www.arce.org/resource/ra-creator-god-ancient-egypt
LINK - article on the location of the upper room - https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/biblical-sites-places/biblical-archaeology-sites/jesus-last-supper-tomb-of-david/
LINK - article on the origins of the Seder - https://schechter.edu/the-origins-of-the-seder/
LINK - video lesson entitled "The Mirror of Passover." This takes this series and expands upon it even further. The Passover of Adonai is an amazing event that seems to provide a mirror the Lamb of God and the Passover Lamb and the new creation in Genesis and the new creation in the book of Revelation - https://youtu.be/ipaeu7AQZ8Y
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
This is a special VIDEO lesson, “His Highness’ Heavy Heart” in the Bible study series, “The Gospel According to Moses – Exodus,” and in Exod. 7:1-3 we read ...
Then the LORD said to Moses, "See, I make you as God to Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron shall be your prophet. You shall speak all that I command you, and your brother Aaron shall speak to Pharaoh that he let the sons of Israel go out of his land. But I will harden Pharaoh's heart that I may multiply My signs and My wonders in the land of Egypt." (Exo 7:1-3)
So, is it true that we need to rewrite John 3:16 to say that God so loved the world, except Pharaoh, and gave His only son for all, except Pharaoh, and God took away his free will? So, Pharaoh had no choice. He was a robot. Like the idea of “once saved always saved” in that we are robots and we have no choice in our salvation. Never did understand those who are Calvinists. So, for John Calvin, Pharaoh was condemned right from the get go? All is pre-determined. Pharaoh was created by God and forced to do what God wanted and not his own inclinations? How can this be true?
It isn't!!
God NEVER hardened Pharaoh's heart. In Biblical Hebrew it is impossible. Matter of fact there are three separate and distinct Hebrew words that are translated "to be hardened" and they do not come close to meaning that. What's going on? Come and see.
To access the video lesson simply go to the website, www.LightofMenorah.org, and click on the You Tube icon on the right hand side. Or simply click on this link - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvcIXun2BQDIw6myuMPTvlWHUu9AJqXip
You'll be taken to the video channel for Light of Menorah. Once there simply scroll the list of vidcasts (videos) to find lesson 20.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
This is lesson 2 of the special VIDEO lessons entitled, “His Highness’ Heavy Heart.” In Exod. 7:1-3 we read ...
Then the LORD said to Moses, "See, I make you as God to Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron shall be your prophet. You shall speak all that I command you, and your brother Aaron shall speak to Pharaoh that he let the sons of Israel go out of his land. But I will harden Pharaoh's heart that I may multiply My signs and My wonders in the land of Egypt." (Exo 7:1-3)
In these lessons we will study under a famous rabbi who is a Hebrew scholar from the 16th century, Rabbi Sforno. He was deeply disturbed that He who gave man his free will would somehow take it away. Rabbi Sforno knew that this is not the God we believe in for both Jew and Gentile. Rabbi Sforno shows a strong argument that God NEVER hardened Pharaoh's heart. In Biblical Hebrew it is impossible. What's going on? Come and see. Once again we see how much we miss by not studying the Bible in its historical context and its ancient cultural context.
To access the video lesson simply go to the website, www.LightofMenorah.org, and click on the "You Tube" icon on the right hand side. You'll be taken to the video channel for Light of Menorah. Once there simply scroll the list of vidcasts (videos) to find lesson 21. It should be first in the list.
Here are some awesome links to enhance your study.
1) Where did I get this from? I got it from the Jewish Torah site called Aleph/Beta - here's the link to the lesson - click herehttps://www.alephbeta.org/playlist/why-did-god-harden-pharaohs-heart
2) Free book by Dr. John Currid - an outstanding theologian, archaeologist, and Egyptologist who helps us understand the polemic theology of the Torah and the Egyptian background to the question did God harden Pharaoh's heart - https://www.dropbox.com/s/9wvy3w2rx9zuwmv/Against%20the%20Gods%20John%20Currid.pdf?dl=0
3) Link to an article reviewing Dr. Currid's definition of polemic theology - this is a must read for you if you are in anyway serious about understanding the Bible - click herehttps://www.dropbox.com/s/11wv18rc80zz535/Currid%20Why%20Did%20God%20Harden%20Pharaoh.pdf?dl=0
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Session 2 - we continue our focus on the 1st Palm Sunday probably in 30 A.D. We ask why did the Lord pick this day to ride into Jerusalem? Was it just the day that was convenient or was it part of a plan? Is there something about this Sunday that they understood almost 2000 years ago but we don't since we are not Jewish and we did not live then. And what's the deal about the palm branches? In those days the palm branch to the Jews was not a symbol of victory like Rome or Greece - that's a pagan meaning and devout religious Jews would never use such a pagan meaning. For the Jews then it was the symbol of the land of Israel. If you waved a palm branch in Jesus' day as they did it's like us raising the American flag today like after 9/11 and shouting out, "USA, USA, USA!" Waving palm branches was a patriotic gesture in those times in Israel. So, let's delve into our continued study and walk those ancient streets and paths to try and grasp what they knew, what they understood so that the Bible's meaning for us is enhanced and our walk with Rabbi Jesus becomes more passionate and committed.
Here's links to some awesome articles that will enhance your study ...
The article from Jerusalem Perspective on Jesus' last ride into Jerusalem - https://www.jerusalemperspective.com/1402/
Rev. Ferret's graduate paper on the archaeology of the Passion of Jesus - https://www.dropbox.com/s/28fu8ay951lwy3u/NWC%20Paper%20Passion%20Week%202020%20revised.pdf?dl=0
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Palm Sunday is a key holy day in the church. It marks the start of Passion Week. It also is a remembrance of Jesus' "triumphal" ride into Jerusalem. But, did this happen on a Sunday? It seems from the resources we have that the earliest date of the celebration of Palm Sunday is from the 4th century. That is close to 300 some years after Jesus ascended to heaven. That is a big gap.
This session will show that there is evidence to suggest a real possibility that Jesus did ride into Jerusalem on a Sunday. If this is the case, however, putting this event back into its historical context may challenge our long held traditions. However, as we examine the archaeology, the history, and the ancient customs of those days we will find it strengthens our doctrine - it strengthens our walk of faith.
This is session 1 of a four part series on archaeology and the Passover. Watch for the other three lessons coming soon.
One of my teachers and now a friend, Dr. Carl Rasmussen, professor emeritus of Bethel University, scholar and Bible historian extraordinaire, has an awesome website called Holy Land Photos. I am linking you to one of 100's and 100's of collections he has gathered of pictures of religious and archaeological sites across the Middle East. Here is the link to the collection of pictures of the Mt. of Olives. I know you'll love and it'll add to your study in this four part series.
Link - https://holylandphotos.org/browse.asp?s=1,2,6,19,451
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Session Two coming soon
"The Palm and the Lamb"
Why did Jesus ride in on a Sunday? What's the big deal? What does it mean for me today? Just wait!!
This is lesson 38 part 2. In Exod. 13:1-21 we find certain Jewish traditions that come out of these verses. One is related to the verses below.
"And it shall serve as a sign to you on your hand, and as a reminder on your forehead, that the law of the LORD may be in your mouth; for with a powerful hand the LORD brought you out of Egypt.” (Exo 13:9)
"So it shall serve as a sign on your hand and as phylacteries on your forehead, for with a powerful hand the LORD brought us out of Egypt." (Exo 13:16)
"You shall bind them as a sign on your hand and they shall be as frontals on your forehead.” (Deu 6:8)
"You shall therefore impress these words of mine on your heart and on your soul; and you shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontals on your forehead.” (Deu 11:18)
From these verses comes the use of תְּפִילִּין TEFILLIN or the boxes with straps that are used in Jewish prayer. Ancient tefillin were found in the Qumran area on the northeast shores of the Dead Sea. They are dated to Jesus’ day. So, the use of tefillin certainly go back to Jesus’ day; we have archaeological proof. Thus, it is likely that Jesus wore them as a Jewish sage (rabbi). He is never accused in the Gospels of NOT using them. It is clear Jesus wore the four tassels (ציציות tzeetzeeot) on the corners of His garment since this is what the woman who had a bleeding disease for 12 years actually touched as was healed. Jesus was doing what religious Jewish men did then; they wore the tassels and used the tefillin.
The second tradition comes from the verses below.
"You shall tell your son on that day, saying, 'It is because of what the LORD did for me when I came out of Egypt.' “ (Exo 13:8)
"And it shall be when your son asks you in time to come, saying, 'What is this?' then you shall say to him, 'With a powerful hand the LORD brought us out of Egypt, from the house of slavery.” (Exo 13:14)
"And when your children say to you, 'What does this rite mean to you?' you shall say, 'It is a Passover sacrifice to the LORD who passed over the houses of the sons of Israel in Egypt when He smote the Egyptians, but spared our homes.'" (Exo 12:26-27)
"When your son asks you in time to come, saying, 'What do the testimonies and the statutes and the judgments mean which the LORD our God commanded you?' then you shall say to your son, 'We were slaves to Pharaoh in Egypt, and the LORD brought us from Egypt with a mighty hand.” (Deu 6:20-21)
The old tradition is the part in a modern Jewish Seder where a child of the family asks the four questions as related to the verses above. The four questions are shown below.
- Question 1: Why on all other nights do we eat either leavened bread or matza, but on this night only matza?
- Question 2: Why on all other nights do we eat different types of vegetables, but on this night only bitter herbs?
- Question 3: Why on all other nights do we not dip our food once, but on this night we dip it twice?
- Question 4: Why on all nights do we eat either sitting upright or reclining, but on this night we recline?
It is said that each question was asked by a certain type of child.
- The Wise Son: “What are the testimonies, the statutes, and the laws that G‑d, our G‑d, has commanded to you?”
- The Wicked Son: "What is this service of yours?!"
- The Simple Son: “What is this celebration about?”
- The One Who Doesn't Know How to Ask: "As for The One Who Knows Not How To Ask — you must open up [the conversation] for him."
The main point in all this is the Exodus is the key Biblical event establishing the Jewish people, Israel as a nation, and Judaism. It only happened once and will never happen again. It even changed their calendar - the month of Nissan, the month f Passover, is the first month of the year and Nissan 1 is God's New Year.
God had engineered history and orchestrated all these events and He wants His people never to forget. So the use of tefillin is a tool to help remember. And the tradition of the use of the four questions in the Seder is to teach the next generation so that they too will never forget.
What does all this have to do with Jesus? How does this relate to our experience as Christians in the 21st century? In this lesson we will see the amazing and awesome connections to Jesus. He said that salvation is from the Jews. The Exodus was a God orchestrated event not to rescue slaves, or to give freedom to Israel. No. It was an event marking a new era with a new people who are given a new task. In Isa. 42:6 and 49:6 they, Israel, are the LIGHT OF THE WORLD to bring the salvation (Jesus’ name – Yeshua H3444 יְשׁוּעָה ) of God to the “ends of the earth.” On top of that He took bread (unleavened?) at His Passover Meal of the Messiah (the Last Supper) and said it was Him, His body. This takes us right to Exodus 13 and this chapter takes us to the CROSS - a one time event that will never happen again and it too changed our calendar. You won’t believe how these lessons are proof of Jesus’ words in John 5:39 that all scripture testifies of Him. He said it between 24-30 A.D. and all they had was the Hebrew Bible. Again His words are true to them then and to us now.
If you missed lesson 38 part 1 check it out. Here's the link - https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-fuv7b-11e242c
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In lesson 38 we focus on Exod. 13:1-21. There are amazing connections to this chapter and to Yeshua, His death, and the new life He provides through the cross. In this session we focus on the first born of Israel, animals and men. All belong to the Lord. All first born male animals must be sacrificed but all the first born human males, except for Levities, are redeemed; a price is paid of 5 shekels. The key word is redeemed. How might this relate to Jesus. On one hand He is human, and the first born son of Mary. On the other hand He is God, He is Divine and He is the only first born begotten son of the Father and is the Lamb of God. But all male first born lambs must be sacrificed. Hmmm, yes, the Lamb of God is sacrificed. Seems to be connected to all this.
We will also study UNLEAVENDED BREAD again. But this time the Torah gives us a picture. The UNLEAVENED BREAD is a picture of the Torah of the Lord, the Written Word. The Written Word is the Bread of Life. But I thought Jesus is the Living Word. He said He is is the Bread of Life. Huh? How can this be? Is Jesus the Written Word and the Living Word? Are they the same? Are they different? Did Jesus erase the Written Word? How is this all related to the Cross? You won’t believe this once you get into this. Come and study with us and go deeper in your understanding of the Passover and the Great Redemption of the Lord, יהוה, Yahvay (not Yahway - there is no W sound in Hebrew!!).
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In part 1 of lesson 37 we will learn about the father of the gods. He is Amun Ra. He was the head god in the 18th dynasty at the time of the Exodus in 1446 B.C. We read in TORAH the following …
Now it came about at midnight that the LORD struck all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh who sat on his throne to the firstborn of the captive who was in the dungeon, and all the firstborn of cattle. (Exo 12:29)
Amun Ra had an only son, the moon god Khonsu. One can say that it is like the father of the gods lost his only begotten first born son on the first Passover on the night of the full moon. This strikes really close to home for a Christian. What is the Lord God teaching us?
Here’s links to study the Egyptian Trinity of Gods. Link 1 is on Amun Ra and link2 is on his wife, Mut, and his only begotten son, Khonsu.
Link 1 – https://www.memphis.edu/hypostyle/meaning_function/amun-re.php
Link 2 - https://www.memphis.edu/hypostyle/meaning_function/mut-khonsu.php
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In part 2 of lesson 37 we study the numbers in Exodus 12 and Numbers 1-2. It says that 600,000 men left Egypt in the Exodus. It is estimated that this is probably 2,000,000 people total and perhaps even 3,000,000. The Bible goes on to say in Num. 1-2 that the army of Israel in 1444 B.C. numbered 603,550 men. This is ridiculous. Consider the chart below from the Encyclopedia Britannica. (To view the chart click on this link -
https://www.businessinsider.com/this-ambitious-graphic-shows-the-size-of-standing-armies-from-antiquity-to-the-present-2014-11)
If this is the case Israel had the largest army in the world of all ancient nations and empires including Rome! This makes no sense. But, this also implies that if there were 603,550 men in the army this means perhaps 2,000,000 to 3,000,000 total people left Egypt in the Exodus. If that is the case, if it is 2,000,000, the line of these people traveling out of Egypt would be 100 to 200 miles long and it would take more than a day for them to cross the sea. The numbers DON’T ADD UP.
Is the Bible wrong? Why would the Lord give us numbers that make no sense? Or perhaps, there is something we can’t see? Perhaps it has something to do with the Hebrew word אֶלֶף ELF H505. Today, it means 1000’s. But back then it could also mean …
And he said to Him, “O ????, with what do I save Yisra’el? See, my clan (אֶלֶף ELF H505) is the weakest in Menashsheh, and I am the least in my father’s house.” (Jdg 6:15)
Perhaps there is a reasonable explanation for these improbable numbers that maintains the veracity of God’s word. Perhaps? Not perhaps. But, definitely. There is a realistic solution.
Check out the links that were brought up in this lesson.
- Check out this website that discusses the issue with the number 600,000 men leaving Egypt in the Exodus. Link - https://www.thetorah.com/article/recounting-the-census-a-military-force-of-5500
- Another website that also presents a very complete discussion on the improbability of the numbers used in Exod. 12 and Numb. 1-2 – Link - https://sharedveracity.net/2016/10/15/did-an-army-of-600000-israelites-conquer-the-land-of-canaan/
- Here’s a link to the chart above - https://www.businessinsider.com/this-ambitious-graphic-shows-the-size-of-standing-armies-from-antiquity-to-the-present-2014-11
- Light of Menorah video entitled “The Mirror of Passover” - https://youtu.be/ipaeu7AQZ8Y
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
We are still in an interlude. We started Exodus 12 and did not go directly to the 10th and last plague. Instead, before the awesome hammer of the Lord falls on Egypt and the firstborn, the Lord instructs Moses to teach Israel about Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread.
Our focus in lesson 36 will be on Exod. 12:14-28 and we will deal with three major concepts as it relates to Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread.
The first concept is the command by the Lord that Israel will do a special celebration annually forever as a memorial, a celebration to remember the awesome great things God did for Israel in Egypt. The Hebrew word used for memorial is זִכְרוֹן zikrôn H2146. So the Feast of Unleavened Bread is a 7 day feast to be a remembrance of their great deliverance by the Lord out of Egypt.
What is interesting is that the TORAH deals with this concept of remembering quite a lot. God sets up so many rituals and practices used by His people to remember. Many Jewish religious men, for example, wear four tassels. This is based on the TORAH in Num. 15:37-4. It is practiced today and in Jesus’ day. One of Jesus’ tassels was touched by a woman with a bleeding disease and was instantly healed. She didn’t touch the fringe of His outer cloak but one of the four tassels on the four corners.
This command by the Lord for His men to wear the tassels is specifically for one purpose. They are to remember God’s commands, laws, and instructions to live as His people as they see the tassels. An example of God’s interest in us to remember.
The second concept is studying the phrase “cut off from Israel” or “cut off from the people.” The Hebrew word for this penalty is KARAT כָּרַת H3772. It means to be cut or severed or separated. This is a very interesting penalty that is associated with seemingly trivial matters. For example, if one goes to work on the Sabbath one is cut off from Israel. Another way to get cut off from Israel is to eat a piece of leavened bread during the feast – even if no one sees you. These seemingly trivial matters you do to receive KARAT כָּרַת also can never be forgiven. The rabbis think it is so serious that if one receives KARAT, cut off from Israel, one will not enter the World to Come or experience the resuscitation of the dead. For Christians that is like saying one will not get into heaven or ever be resurrected from the dead. So, this idea of KARAT is a big deal. One can find it over and over again in the Torah.
The last concept we will deal with is connected to the picture below.
This is a decoration my wife and I have on our table when we celebrate what we call, “The Passover Meal of the Messiah.” It is normally called Jesus’ Last Supper. You will notice it is a cross with a doorway attached – a doorway with its two doorposts and the cross beam or lintel. We recall that the lamb of the Passover is sacrificed and the blood is “painted” on the wood; it is smeared on the doorposts and lintel. God says that when He sees that those inside the house will be spared from His being poured out across Egypt. Hmmm. This seems to be directly connected to Jesus who is the Lamb of God crucified on Passover. He was on the cross for some 6 hours. The blood of the Lamb of God flowed onto the wood; His blood stained the wood of the cross. Paul writes about this.
Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. (Rom 5:9)
This is so connected to the Exodus. It is so connected to the first time God saved His people from His wrath. So the cross and the doorway seem to be connected. In this lesson we will again see that Jesus’ words are true when He said that ALL SCRIPTURE testifies of Himself. Where is He in TORAH? Right in front of us.
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
God commands that the feast of Unleavened Bread will be 7 days, and 7 days ONLY. Not 8 as the orthodox rabbis changed it to. By changing it the orthodox rabbis again show they can change God's word to their own personal views. This is crazy. It also takes away from the unbelievable importance of the number 7 from Genesis to Revelation.
In this lesson we will just focus on the number 7. When we do we will find patterns of the use of the number 7 that can only be the handiwork of the Lord. It is as if the number 7 and the patterns God creates in his word is like God's watermark. Watermarks, very faint printing on a picture or a document such that it is used to protect the document/picture from being used if illegally copied and other confidential information and to indicate the validity of a legal document. You'll also see watermarks on any paper banknote, where they're used to help prevent counterfeiting. See below for a picture showing a picture with and without a "watermark."
It is as if the 7 is like God's watermark. It shows that the word of God written by men under the direct inspiration of the Spirit of the Most High is not created by men but by the Lord. You won't believe what you are about to study. It'll take us from Gen. 1:1 to Rev. 22:21, the first and the last verses of the Bible. It will seem to indicate that the Living Word of the Lord, Yeshua, is connected to the number 7 in ways we have never seen before. And, this is NOT Numerology which is more related to the occult. It is not a Bible Code which are very problematic. What we are about to study is FACT and proven again and again by highly credible scholars, Jew and Gentile.
In the podcast I said I'd provide many links for your further study. Here they are.
Link 1 - a video, one of many at this site, that shows the work of Professor Ivan Panin and his discovery of the mathematical patterns in God's word. It so amazed Prof. Panin that he became a Christian based upon the amazing things he discovered that showed him that the Bible is true, it is God's word, and the Jesus is the Lord, the Savior, and the long awaited Messiah.
https://www.thelivingword.org.au/grand-design/session16.php
Link 2 - a fantastic video done by Chuck Missler of Koinonia House. It is another presentation of Panin's work done in a style that is true Chuck Missler. Awesome material you will find most intriguing.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1f9WYGBfpaw
Links 3, 4, and 5. Awesome articles that are related to Panin's work and the number 7 and the patterns that seem to suggest the number 7 is God's watermark.
Link 3 - https://www.thetorah.com/article/seven-the-biblical-number
Link 4 - https://www.differentspirit.org/evidence/numerics.php
Link 5 - https://www.biblestudytools.com/topical-verses/the-number-7-in-the-bible/
Link 6 - an article from a great scholarly site, GotQuestions.org addressing Bible codes and that the Bible, God's word, suggests that they are very problematic and not what the Bible says about the COMPLETENESS of God's word as it stands.
https://www.gotquestions.org/Bible-codes.html
Link 7 - an article on the famous Jewish rabbi, Nachmanides and his teachings on the number 7.
http://www.betemunah.org/seven.html
Link 6 - an article from a great scholarly site, GotQuestions.org addressing Bible codes and that the Bible, God's word, suggests that they are very problematic and not what the Bible says about the COMPLETENESS of God's word as it stands.
https://www.gotquestions.org/Bible-codes.html
Link 7 - an article on the famous Jewish rabbi, Nachmanides and his teachings on the number 7.
http://www.betemunah.org/seven.html
Link 8 - an article with background information on Prof. Ivan Panin - http://www.wordworx.co.nz/panin.html
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Once again we will come face to face with totally amazing things in the historical context of Passover; we will gain deeper and enhanced perspectives on the Jewish Passover and the Passover of the Lamb of God.
In lesson 34 we will ask ourselves the question of why unleavened bread. What’s with that? It has everything to do with Egypt, everyday life in Egypt, and the Hebrews who had assimilated into this pagan culture. We recall Deut. 32:15-17 …
“But Jeshurun (a Hebrew word "upright" used to represent Israel) grew fat and kicked-- you are grown fat, thick, and sleek-- Then he forsook God who made him, and scorned the Rock of his salvation. They made Him jealous with strange gods; with abominations they provoked Him to anger. They sacrificed to demons who were not God, to gods whom they have not known, new gods who came lately, whom your fathers did not dread.” (Deu 32:15-17)
Moses is teaching us what the Lord, YHVH, gave him. The Hebrews turned on the Lord became part of the Egyptian culture, values, and worldview. They ate the “leavened bread” of Egypt and Egypt’s gods. In this lesson you will come to understand that it makes sense to associate LEAVENED bread with Egypt and UNLEAVENED bread with the Lord. You will understand new things to give a deeper insight into Jesus’ Last Supper as well; His last Passover meal that I call the Passover Meal of the Messiah.
In this podcast I again mentioned an earlier powerful and important lesson. It has to do with the Biblical “proof” if you will that the Hebrews assimilated into the Egyptian culture. It is so important that we grasp this historical fact since it is so related to the rest of the book of Exodus and, the entire Torah. Here’s the link to that podcast - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-wdzur-f82194
Also, we will study the Hebrew word פֶּסַח PEH SACK H6453 and another Hebrew word that is very close, פָּסַח PAH SACK H6452. Once we understand these two Hebrew words we will understand in a more powerful way the phrases in Exod. 12:11 where it says “the Lord’s Passover” and in 1 Cor. 5:7 “Christ our Passover.” And we thought we had it. We thought we understood. Far from it.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
As we put the Bible into its historical context, we find our understanding of the first Passover is extremely limited from what is taught in traditional Sunday churches and Messianic groups. But, as we delve into the fact that the Exodus and the Passover are so affected by Egypt, its ancient culture, and pantheon of gods, the Passover takes on a deeper and more awesome meaning.
In this lesson (part 2 in this mini series on Exod. 12:1-14) we ask the question why did God wait till the 15th of the month to come and kill the first born in all Egypt? The dads of each household picked a lamb or goat less than 1 year old on the 10th of the month and kept it until the 14th. It was to be sacrificed on the evening of the 14th and after sundown, which means it is now the 15th of the month, at midnight, the Lord let His final hammer fall; the Lord executed the first born on all Egypt.
Was there something special about this night, the 15th of Nissan? Was it somehow different from other nights astronomically? Did it relate to Egypt, its gods? Once we study this we will be blown away and our understanding of the Passover we be expanded and enriched. On top of that we will see how it relates to Jesus, the Last Supper (the Passover Meal of the Messiah), His death, and resurrection. We will more see the awesome connection in that on the 15th on Nissan probably in 30 A.D. the first born and only begotten son of the Father, The Lord God, was executed. What we will learn is that it was the same in Egypt for Amun Ra, the “father” god of all the gods of Egypt.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link -https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
So you think you know Passover? You think you see all the connections between Jesus the Messiah and the Passover and Egypt? You think as I did that Jesus did a Passover Seder? Wow - you won't believe what we missed. Share my excitement as you join me on a journey to learn about the Passover like never before. You will be amazed at what is not taught to us and see, that what is taught to us, is so limited and basic.
In this lesson I mentioned that I will link you to lessons 30 and 31 in this Torah series on Exodus. Here's the links. I recommend HIGHLY that you study these lessons if you haven't yet before you move on.
Link to lesson 30 - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-d94p6-117e40f
Link to lesson 31 - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-pbvk7-117ff15
And here's a link to the special lesson entitled, "The Archaeology of the Passover: the Ram of God and the Last Supper." This lesson goes deeper into some aspects of the Last Supper that are so awesome. Here's the link to this podcast - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-tzda7-da7d9c
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link -click here for the teacher's background
There is a concept so prevalent in the Hebrew Scriptures (the Old Testament - nothing "old" about it) and in the Messianic Texts (the New Testament) and my 1st teacher in Israel, Ray Vander Laan, termed it as, “Head and Heart and Hands and Feet.” Over and over again we read the about being righteous and it is pictured in the way we talk or hear or listen (our head) or in our work or results of what we do (hands) and in the ways we walk (feet) – walk in the commands of the Lord and walk in our own ways. It is also pictured in the way we think or our emotions of feelings (heart). Just consider the text in the prophet Isaiah.
"Where will you be stricken again, As you continue in your rebellion? The whole head is sick And the whole heart is faint. From the sole of the foot even to the head There is nothing sound in it, Only bruises, welts and raw wounds, Not pressed out or bandaged, ... So when you spread out your hands in prayer, I will hide My eyes from you; Yes, even though you multiply prayers, I will not listen. Your hands are covered with blood." (Isa 1:5-15)
In one chapter we see this concept played out quite clearly. The rebelliousness against God is pictured using the concept “head and heart and hands and feet.”
Another place this is seen is in the consecration of the high priest Aaron and his sons. Consider …
"Then you shall take the other ram, and Aaron and his sons shall lay their hands on the head of the ram. "You shall slaughter the ram, and take some of its blood and put it on the lobe of Aaron's right ear and on the lobes of his sons' right ears and on the thumbs of their right hands and on the big toes of their right feet, and sprinkle the rest of the blood around on the altar. (Exo 29:19-20)
In the Torah Commentary by the Messianic Jewish scholar, Tim Hegg, he says that these body parts in the ancient Middle East and among the ancient Hebrews came to mean hearing and obeying the Torah of the Lord using the ear (Head). The right hand symbolizes one’s work. Aaron had his hand dedicated to the daily work of the sacrifices of the Lord (Hand). His feet symbolize that he walk according the God’s ways and maintain his right standing before God in his daily movements in life (Feet).
There are two verses that you may remember that deal with the heart. In these verses we see that the heart is the source of our wickedness and our evil ways and thoughts. Consider …
"The heart is more deceitful than all else And is desperately sick; Who can understand it? "I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, Even to give to each man according to his ways (feet), According to the results of his deeds(hands). (Jer 17:9-10)
"But the things that proceed out of the mouth(head) come from the heart, and those defile the man. "For out of the heart come evil thoughts (heart), murders(hands), adulteries(hands), fornications(hands), thefts (hands), false witness(head)., slanders(head). (Mat 15:18-19)
In Psalm 15:1-3 we again come across this "picture" of head and heart and hands and feet. Let's delve into this and see the dramatic place it takes us. Let's study this idea God seems to use to teach from Genesis to Revelation. Come let's learn about Head and Hearts and Hands and Feet.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
For Hebrews they have a Middle East mindset unlike us who have a Greek mindset (Western). For Hebrews they represent major theological concepts many times in pictures. Like Jesus as a Jewish Rabbi telling teaching us that we are branches of the true vine and He is the true vine. In the psalms the writers like David use this Hebrew mindset and create pictures that those who lived in 1200 or 1000 or 900 B.C. would completely understand from the culture of those days. This video will consider two dramatic "pictures" of major attributes of the Lord in Psalm 52:8 and Psalm 18:33 and Hab. 3:18-19.
Does His word give us specifics as to how He does support us and help us in trials, troubles, suffering, and perhaps even in death? The Bible seems to give us a picture of times of trouble and suffering. The Bible seems to picture them as "high places" - like dangerous steep high cliffs that we must walk, saint and sinner, as we live and persevere in a fallen world. These pictures present amazing truths of our Lord and His love for us His people that can only be understood if you are Hebrew and lived in David's day of the days of Messiah Jesus.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Esau is not the man for the job. Yes, he is the first born. But, just because he is the first born, theבְּכוֹר Bekor H1060, he has tasks and responsibilities even before his dad passes away. He becomes a teammate with his dad. They together work to help the family with all its needs, they stand together to protect the family, they make sure all are safe and healthy, and the first born and the dad do all they can to make sure the family stays together. Esau, however, is seemingly focused only on hunting, the outdoors, adventure, fun, and not the day to day family business. It must’ve been a big job to stay home and take care of the massive holdings that Isaac was blessed with as we read.
Now Isaac sowed in that land and reaped in the same year a hundredfold. And the LORD blessed him, and the man became rich, and continued to grow richer until he became very wealthy; for he had possessions of flocks and herds and a great household, so that the Philistines envied him. (Gen 26:12-14)
In this lesson we will delve into this more. I bring up Ken Baily’s book, “Jacob and the Prodigal.” Ken is an awesome Biblical scholar with many books and articles he has written. One I highly recommend is, “Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes: Cultural Studies in the Gospels.” Bailey examines the life and ministry of Jesus with attention to the Lord's Prayer, the Beatitudes, Jesus' relationship to women, and especially Jesus' parables. Through it all, Bailey employs his trademark expertise as a master of Middle Eastern culture to lead us into a deeper understanding of the person and significance of Jesus within his own cultural context.
But, in his book, “Jacob and the Prodigal,” he shows us amazing connections between the parable of Jesus and the story involving Jacob and Esau. For example, here are 15 connections between these two.
- In both stories there are three major players: a father and two sons
- The blessing/inheritance is a critical part of both stories.
- In both stories the younger son seeks advantages from the father using dishonorable methods and succeeds
- In both stories the younger son is estranged from both the father and the older brother.
- In both stories the younger son goes to a far country.
- The older son remains at home in both stories.
- The younger son becomes a herder in the far country in both stories.
- In both stories the younger son decides to return home, but is afraid of how he will be received.
- Both younger sons show no remorse.
- In both stories there is a divine visitation – the man who wrestles with Jacob and the father who symbolizes God.
- In both stories the younger son receives the three-fold welcome of running, falling on the neck and kissing (In all of scripture this trilogy only appears in Gen 33:4 and Luke 15:20!)
- In both stories the older brother is angry about the return of the younger.
- In both stories the younger son is reconciled to the family.
- In both stories there is a concern that the younger son return in peace (Gen 28:21; Lk 15:27)
- Each story is critical for the community that remembers and tells the story.
For us we will consider this parable and other sources to study two major concepts. The first is the first born, or the Bekor, and the Bet Av, the house of the father. One great resource is Ray Vander Laan's lessons from Israel and the Middle East. Here is a "free" video where Ray focuses on the concept of the Bet Av - the father's house (pronounced bate av). Here's the link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dm7S101cyJM
As we study these we will gain a deeper and more expansive understanding of the Jacob and Esau story. We will perhaps even gain a deeper appreciation of why Rebecca did what she did to have Jacob deceive Isaac to get the blessing of the first born.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
The Jewish feast of Purim פּוּרִים (pronounced in Hebrew Poo Reem) commemorates the deliverance by Esther of all the Jews from annihilation. It has been glamorized recently in the movie called, “One Night With the King.” It is also celebrated among the Jewish people annually. But, the book of Esther has always been problematic for the rabbis. It is totally secular in that God is never mentioned nor any aspects of the Jewish faith or ritual. This is one reason why the book of Esther nearly didn’t make it into the Jewish canon, the accepted books of the Hebrew Scriptures. It is also possibly why no portions of the book of Esther were found among the Dead Sea Scrolls.
The other issues in the book of Esther, her being in the pagan harem of king Ahasuerus, better known as Xerxes, or spending one night with the king sexually, were also very problematic with the rabbis and they tried to make up new made up interpretations to make Esther the Bible’s Cinderella; to make Esther a pure, devout, Godly, young lady. These rabbinic views have affected the way both Jews and Christians understand the story to such an extent that the real meaning of these events has been lost amidst Jewish tradition and legend.
In this podcast we will put the book of Esther into its historical context. We will not ignore the difficult aspects that are presented in The Very Words Of God. And as we do we will come to see and understand the bigger picture of the book and what it means. For me after studying these events in their historical context, I have been overwhelmed by the glory of the Lord in this book. For me I will not be surprised to one day see Esther (she’ll probably being using her Hebrew name then, Hadassah) in the wedding party on the day of the wedding feast of the Lamb.
In this podcast I mentioned a paper detailed the harems of ancient Persia. The link is shown below.
Link – https://www.iranicaonline.org/articles/harem-i
Also, some of you may like to see the archaeological site of ancient Susa. Check out this short video on ancient Susa and the remains of the palace of Darius the king before Ahasuerus or Xerxes, the king in the book of Esther.
Link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwkTCPELkvI
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In this vidcast (video) we focus on a small detail the Lord inserted in the book of Esther. For all my years I have never heard anyone teach on it - it was mentioned but no one took it deeper. This small detail we all have read it. But, it seems it doesn’t jog our minds to perhaps pursue what the small detail means and why it is there. But, when we do. WOW!!
So, some say God is not in the book of Esther. That’s right! There is no mention of God or of faith or religious Jewish practices. But, this is God’s inspired book. Thus, call it His TORAH תּוֹרָה which does not mean law but instruction or the Lord's teaching. What is the Lord trying to get at in the book of Esther? Some things are very very obvious. But, we miss things. Why? We are so disconnected for studying the Bible in its historical context. When we do this small detail in the book of Esther will lead us to places that will blow us away.
So, in this inspired book of the Lord, He is teaching us. He is giving us His TORAH תּוֹרָה. Could it be He is connecting us to the Gospel and the Messiah and His redemption plan? Could it be that the book of Esther is part of His design and plan but we have failed to see it since that small detail is something we’ve ignored? The answer is YES. Watch the video. All this is not my theory, opinion, or view. It is The Very Word of God and wait till you see where this takes us. Amazing.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Is Jacob a “mama’s boy?” It says in Gen. 25:27 he was a peaceful man living in tents and his mama, Rebecca, preferred Jacob over Esau. What we will find is Jacob is no mama’s boy. He is תָּם TAM H8535. In the Gesenius Hebrew Lexicon we get the picture of a complete man, a mature grown man, one who lacks nothing. This is no mama’s boy. He is a man you seemingly can count on do face his responsibilities, ready to go the extra mile.
And we read about Jacob being a man of the tents. That means he is attending to family business. He’s not out hunting and having fun like Esau. Jacob is one dedicated to the Bet Av (pronounced “Bate Av”) of the house of the father, the tents of Isaac. Once we put the Bible back into those days around 2000 B.C., into the culture of those days, we will then see that perhaps why Rebecca preferred Jacob over Esau is that Jacob was the one who would preserve the family and keep it together after Isaac died. Rebecca was an awesome woman and she seems to have a clear motive to deceive Isaac using Jacob – give Jacob the blessing of the first born to preserve the Bet Av, the family and keep it from Esau who was out all the time having fun hunting and not doing what he should be doing, being and acting like the first born.
I mentioned two other topics in this lesson. One is that Arabs are not descendants of Ishmael. Arabs are Polyethnic and come from a number of ancient peoples. One of those ancient peoples were around from 3000 B.C. to about 300 B.C. They existed at least 1000 years before Abraham was even born. Here’s a link to lesson 27 in this series. In this lesson you can learn about real Bible dating based upon real history and archaeology. In this lesson you’ll see that 2000 B.C. is an approximate time of Abraham’s birth. Here’s the link – https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-8qb22-f6e039
I also mentioned a website that discusses this issue. Here’s a link to a website. Not the best but at least a beginning for those of you who want to study this further. Link - https://www.bible.ca/islam/islam-myths-arabs-descendants-of-ishmael.htm
Related to this is my paper that proves that Allah is NOT the God of the Bible. This is a false claim made even by some Evangelicals. Even the pop himself "hinted" at this in a speech he did. Here’s the link to the paper. Link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/qve66ohtl87gygb/The%20Bible%2C%20Adonai%2C%20Allah%20and%20the%20Quran%20-%20Who%20is%20Who.pdf?dl=0
Finally, we address the location of Mt. Sinai. Some say it is in southern Saudi Arabia on the west coast. If that is the case these so called scholars must move the Wilderness of Shur, which we read about in these verses in Genesis, from its precise Biblical location to the western shores of Saudi Arabia on the Gulf of Aqaba. These pseudo-scholars have changed the wording of the Bible so that it agrees to their belief that is held only as a remote theory by real Christian and religious Jewish scholars and archaeologists.
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In lesson 60 we will continue our study of Isaac. Again and again we will see that even though Isaac is seemingly of less importance than his dad, Abraham, or his son, Jacob, nevertheless, Isaac is a “big deal.” Isaac is thus one of the Jewish Patriarchs and his position in this elite group of Bible characters is just as critical as the others.
One thing we will see again is the truth of this phrase first coined by Rabbi Moses ben Maimon or better known in Judaism as Rambam. In his commentary on Genesis that he wrote in the Middle Ages, Rambam noticed something and thus wrote …
מה שאירע לאבות סימן לבנים
Mah Shayra L’Avot Seeman L’Banim
“What happened to the fathers is a sign for the sons.”
Rambam Berescheit 12:6
In this lesson Isaac has problems with a Philistine named Abimelech and his herdsmen regarding wells. But, this happened to his father as well. There’s more. Isaac is the promised one to Abraham and Sarah. Isaac’s birth is miraculous! Sarah was beyond child bearing years but God took care of that. This repeats in Isaac’s life. Rebecca could not have children and Isaac prayed for his beautiful Rebecca for 20 years! God answered that prayer and Rebecca conceived. One might say another birth controlled by the hand of the Lord. This then reminds us of Yeshua, Jesus. He is the promised one just like Isaac. Jesus’ birth was an unbelievable miracle as the birth of Isaac and then later the birth of Jacob and Esau. Now we see what Rambam saw and why he wrote …
מה שאירע לאבות סימן לבנים
Mah Shayra L’Avot Seeman L’Banim
“What happened to the fathers is a sign for the sons.”
Rambam Berescheit 12:6
It is almost as if God is showing us that when we see events in the lives of Bible characters that repeat in a pattern later, it is a if God is saying, “I engineered all this. This is all by my hand. You can tell by how one event or one character is reflected in the lives and events of those that came below."
There is a Messianic congregation I know and respect. Their lead teacher wrote an article that relates to the saying of Rambam. Here’s the link to the article. This will add to your understanding. Link - https://rabbiyeshua.com/articles-by-kehilat/item/58-faith-of-our-fathers
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
We’ve all heard the expression, “like father like son.” In this lesson we will see how this relates to Abraham and his son Isaac.
Perhaps, for many of us, we look upon Isaac as a minor Biblical character. His story is not very long in the Torah in Genesis. Matter of fact in the Hebrew Scriptures there are about 200 some verses connected to Abraham and about 100 for Isaac; Isaac seems to be not as important as his dad. But, this is a wrong view.
In this lesson we will see some amazing aspects of his life, Isaac’s life, and this will result in one conclusion; Isaac and his life is a big big deal. We will see that things in Abraham’s life seemingly are repeated in the life of Isaac. I wonder if this is where the rabbis got their insight into a Biblical concept they saw. It is captured in the phrase מַעֲשֵׂה אֲבוֹת סִימָן לַבָּנִים - Ma'asay Avot Seeman L’Baneem or “The deeds of the fathers are signs for the children.” So if one looks at Abraham’s life some of the events are signs or predictions for Isaac. In lessons 54 and 55 in this series we began to see that this was connected to Jesus as well. Indeed the rabbinic concept that “the deeds of the fathers are signs for the children,” is demonstrated in the unbelievable links between יִצְחָק Yeetzack and יֵשׁוּעַ Yeshua, Isaac and Jesus. We will see this continue in this lesson and in lesson 60.
Here are the links to lesson 54 and 55. Perhaps you have already listened to them. It might be good to go back and review. If you haven’t listened to those lessons, I highly recommend you go back, listen to them, and gain a more complete picture and understanding of the awesome standing of Isaac. So, here’s the links …
Lesson 54 – https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-8zhit-1139596
Lesson 55 - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-w7b5j-11507a8
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Episode 9 in the video series, "Five Small Stones," is now ready. Again, we are studying the question of how does the Bible help us understand that Jesus is the FIRST and that Jesus is the LAST. In this lesson we probably have heard some say that Jesus did away with the law or the Torah. (Note: in many English translations one reads the word LAW. This refers to the TORAH, the 1st five books of the Bible. TORAH does not mean law but instruction.) That is interesting since Paul teaches us that Jesus "completed" the Torah and that the TORAH helps us to come to Jesus. This is found in his letters and the only Bible they had when he wrote his epistles was the Hebrew Scriptures, the Old Testament where the first five books of the Hebrew Scriptures, the TORAH, was the foundational books of the Bible in Jesus' day and Paul's. But, more than what Paul wrote and taught us, Jesus said He came to fulfill the TORAH. In Greek this means that He would live out the TORAH as an example to all of us. So, Jesus did not come to do away with the law, the TORAH, He came to "finish it." This is so evident if you study the text of His word in its historical context. This is so awesome.
Here's the link to video #9 in the series, "Five Small Stones," - https://youtu.be/-FSJ0GytjSo
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In this lesson we meet up with Uraeus - the terrible goddess of Egypt and the protector of the king, Pharaoh. Pharaoh had Uraeus on his crown - a cobra. The sacred beast of Uraeus is the serpent pictured as the cobra. And so begins the awesome confrontation between God, the only God, and a man who said he was god, the Pharaoh. It begins with the defeat of his protectress, the Cobra goddess, Uraeus. How is she defeated? Moreover, what else is God coming against when Moses and Aaron return to Pharaoh and Aaron throws down his staff and it becomes a serpent - not a snake - but a terrible lizard. It seems as if God is inspiring Moses to picture the goddess Uraeus not just a snake but a terrible monster.
Another topic we will discuss is the issue of does God judge nations or will God pour His wrath on a people group, a nation, for the collective evil the nation or the group as done. If so what about the innocent that probably are part of the group? Will they suffer along with the evil ones in that culture? The answers are critically important for us today. Will God judge the USA for 62,000,000 babies aborted? If we are innocent will we suffer also if He comes and pours His wrath upon us. This is a difficult concept and must be studied. What better place than ancient Egypt.
I highly recommend you watch the videos, lesson 20 & 21 of this series. They are entitled, "His Highness' Heavy Heart," and deals with the important question did God harden Pharaoh's heart. Did God create this man for damnation and destruction? What about us? Are we predetermined for salvation and others for destruction? To access these videos click on the link below and you will be at our You Tube Channel. Search for the videos that are connected to the pictures below.
Link - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvcIXun2BQDIw6myuMPTvlWHUu9AJqXip
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In lesson 6 we consider the Torah, the 1st five books of the Bible, as a polemic. A polemic is a concept that is diametrically opposed to a competing concept. God seems to indicate this in Lev. 18:1-5 when God said ...
Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, "Speak to the sons of Israel and say to them, 'I am the LORD your God. 'You shall not do what is done in the land of Egypt where you lived, nor are you to do what is done in the land of Canaan where I am bringing you; you shall not walk in their statutes. 'You are to perform My judgments and keep My statutes, to live in accord with them; I am the LORD your God. 'So you shall keep My statutes and My judgments, by which a man may live if he does them; I am the LORD. (Lev 18:1-5, NASB)
It is if God is inspiring Moses to write parts of the Torah as a polemic that comes against the truth claims and pagan mythology of Egypt. Clearly, God wants to help His chosen people to get Egypt out of their life and prepare for entering the pagan world of the Canaanites in the Promised Land. Later when we get to Genesis 50 and Exodus 1 and 2 we will study in detail the Bible proof that the Hebrews slowly but surely assimilated into the Egyptian culture - most of them forgot the God, the only God, the God of their fathers, of Abraham and Isaac and Jacob.
For further study use this link to study the idea that the Hebrews had assimilated into the pagan culture of Egypt. Here's the link - click here for the article showing the assimilation of the Hebrews
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
What an amazing event we are studying; Moses meets Eloheem, our God, the God of Abraham and the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob at the location of the burning bush on the "Mountain of God" in the Sinai region. In this podcast we have two major things we will focus on in Exod. 3:9-17. The first is the uncanny connection between Moses and the Messiah. Moses is called the First Redeemer among some rabbinic scholars and the coming Messiah is called the Ultimate Redeemer. As Moses was chosen we read that Jesus, the Messiah (in English from the Greek, the Christ), is the chosen of God in Luke 9:35. As Moses was sent, the Messiah too, Jesus, was sent as we read in John 20:21. Is there more? And, are we somehow involved? Does this relate to us?
Consider, Israel was a born again people in the New Covenant at Sinai, the mountain of God, and we, Jew and Gentile, who proclaim Jesus as Lord and Savior, are born again and are part of the New Covenant established at Jerusalem, the mountain of God, as in Isa. 2:1-3 or 66:20. Wait a minute that's us! Is there more? You bet.
The second major focus is that for the first time, God makes His own personal name ( יהוה Yahvay) known. But, recall, one purpose of this study is to hear Jesus' words as He said them between 24-30 A.D. when all they had was the Hebrew Scriptures (a.k.a. the Old Testament - I don't like using that. They are not OLD). We hear Him say in John 5:39 that all scripture testifies of Him. Their main Bible books then were the Torah תּוֹרָה, the first five books of the Bible; Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. Thus, one purpose in this study is to "see" Jesus in the Torah תּוֹרָה! And, you guys, WOW, does the Torah ever tell us of the Ultimate Redeemer and the Gospel of the Kingdom. That's why I call the Torah podcast series THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO MOSES. Wait till you see how the giving of God's name ( יהוה Yahvay) in the first Passover season to Moses at the mountain of God (Exod. 3:1) is related to Jesus during the Last Supper in the Passover season as the mountain of God (Isa. 2:1-3).
In this podcast I said I would provide two links to two articles on how mistaken many Gentiles and Jews are today in trying to pronounce God's personal name - יהוה Yahvay. Notice I pronounce it Yahvay and not Yahway. For one reason there is no "W" sound in Hebrew. I have other reasons as well but this is "one hill I will not die on." If you say it is pronounced Yahweh or another way, I respect your view, I disagree, but to me this is not worth the argument. I rely on solid scholars, proven to me over time, that the pronunciation of His name is probably lost forever until Messiah returns. But, there are many who claim that His name is pronounced YEH HOE SHOO AH. So, here's the links to two articles explaining how God's name with no vowel marks (יהוה)and God's name with vowel marks ( יְהוָה ) leads to this error. The vowel marks were put there to tell readers NOT to pronounce the name with the marks but to substitute the word Adonai (אֲדֹנָי -same vowel marks).
The first article is found at the website for the Jerusalem School of the Synoptic Gospels. You may need to JOIN the school to access the 100's and 100's of scholarly articles written by Godly Gentiles and Jews both Christian and part of Judaism. Here's the link - click here for YEHOVAH OR JEHHOVAH: A CHRISTIAN MISUNDERSTADNING
The second article is from 119Ministries. I do not promote 119Ministries but their article is spot on as per the historical background of the development of the Bible and the Masorite Hebrew scholars. Here's the link - click here for the article YEHOVAH: NOT THE NAME OF GOD
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - click here
Recent events have been very difficult and evil. During these days the Lord seemed to open up His word to me and Psalm 118:8 in surprising ways. It was as if this was an ALERT from the Lord for us, we who say we are true disciples of the Lord.
I mentioned in this “alert” of another lesson I did that is related. It is entitled “911” and this is the link to that podcast - https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-ai7ua-db5c77
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In lesson 4 we will deal with the last few words of Phil. 4:6-7 - "and the peace of God which surpasses all comprehension will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Once again we will try and see how those 1st Christians in and around 60 A.D. may have heard and understood this verse. Once we do they will help us hear God's words in a more enhanced way helping us expand our understanding of what God is teaching as as the Lord inspires Paul to write this instruction. It then is so clear this verse is for such a time as this.
We are going through very difficult times - we might call it a high place, a high place of danger, evil, chaos ("isfet" in ancient Egyptian). We pray for God's help to us in this crisis we are in, and it is serious, we are faced with the awful affects of the China Virus, but now, we are under rulers and leaders in the government, in big business, in the media, in our churches, and our schools that are teaching us that what was good and righteous is now evil and bad. They are now saying that which is evil and stuff right out of hell is good and righteous. What we are going through is stupid for us to call it a sign of the endtimes! How ridiculous to think this is the heights of terror!! This is nothing compared to what I think the real tribulation will be like. This is nothing like the WRATH OF THE LORD that MUST be poured out on the earth for what I call the "pandemic" of abortion - in the last 20 years over 1,000,000,000 - yes that is ONE BILLION - infants have been aborted. No pandemic, no epidemic, no war has ever seen such a slaughter - all done by us to proclaim our rights over life and death and our pleasure and prosperity. God can not let this go without His judgment upon the nations of the earth. The blood of those babies cries out and God will not let us off the hook. So, these days we are in are evil and difficult but we ain't seen nothin yet, baby. God hates what this society is doing to the innocent and the helpless. He hates it. I can't imagine what His wrath will be like when it comes full force.
So, we need "feet like an ibex" to walk in the "high places" we are put in (listen to lesson 3). We need to have the Lord with us and help us be like Esther to do what He want us to do as His true disciples for such a time as this.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
This is like God's intro to the world. He meets Moses at the burning bush and it's kind of like God saying to Moses and to the world, "Hi y'all. Wanted to introduce myself. I am God." Moreover, God tells Moses and us that He is the God of Moses' father and the God of Abraham and the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob. Why repeat? He is God. He is the only God. Why say He is the God Abraham and the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob? Why not say He is God, the God of Moses' father, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Makes more sense, right? But, perhaps something else is going on. Perhaps Adonai says it the way He says it for a very distinct purpose we miss. Not perhaps. Better is, God did it on purpose for a very specific reason.
Here, for the first time, the Lord gives some detail about the Promised Land. He mentions six pagan clans that He will remove so Israel can take over the land. Later in Deuteronomy God does it again but this time ...
"When the LORD your God brings you into the land where you are entering to possess it, and clears away many nations before you, the 1) Hittites and the 2) Girgashites and the 3) Amorites and the 4) Canaanites and the 5) Perizzites and the 6) Hivites and the 7) Jebusites, seven nations greater and stronger than you, ..."(Deu 7:1)
We have the addition of one more clan, the Girgashites. You will find this also to be true in the book of Joshua as well. I bring this up since another goal of this Torah study series is to try and grasp how Jesus' disciples, the twelve, may have understood this. Is it possible that Girgashites, where they lived in Israel, and the seven pagan clans or nations might have something to do with Yeshua HaMashiach, Jesus the Messiah, Jesus the Christ? We did not live 2000 years ago? The geography of Israel and our Jewish roots are so foreign to us. But, those 12 disciples perhaps got it. Let's return to those days, let's return to understand the Girgashites, where they lived and the SEVEN pagan clans to see how it may be part of two significant events and miracles in the life of Jesus. This is too awesome.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
The verse Phil. 4:6-7 is a verse for such a time as this. Esther was put in her position for her day and time save all Israel. What about you and me? As Christians we live in dark and difficult times. Forces have risen and are in positions of leadership and influence where things that are good are now evil; things that were bad, evil, are now considered good and righteous. These days of evil and chaos will probably increase and even get worse; the Bible seems to predict this as we get closer to the return of Messiah. So, it is time for true disciples of Adonai Yeshua to rise up and apply His Word and pray; it is time to seek the Lord and run to Him as our refuge. Paul gives us Phil. 4:6-7 as verses that are meant for such a time as this, now, today. We've been given God's instruction and we are now ready for these days; ready for such a time as this.
But this was written around 60 A.D. How did those 1st Christians in Philippi hear this instruction from Paul? They were Messianic Jews for the most part; all they had was the Hebrew Scriptures or the Old Testament. They faced even worse conditions than we face. Their government was lead by a man who was said to be god. It was an evil decadent society beyond what we face today. And soon they'd face the awful persecutions under Rome. Thus, how might have they understood not to be "anxious"? Or to "by prayer"? Or the concept of of God's peace, His shalom? Let's walk with them on their ways and hear the word like them; let them help us broaden our understanding of the Word of Adonai.
Who's John Ferret? What's his background? Why should I listen to this guy? Here's a link to learn a little about Rev. Ferret - click here for background of the teacher
There are 52 occurrences of the phrase "the angel of the Lord" in the Hebrew Scriptures, the Old Testament. You can see the verses starting in Genesis to Exodus 3 which is the focus of this lesson.
Gen_16:7 Now the angel of the LORD found her by a spring of water in the wilderness, by the spring on the way to Shur.
Gen_16:9 Then the angel of the LORD said to her, "Return to your mistress, and submit yourself to her authority."
Gen_16:10 Moreover, the angel of the LORD said to her, "I will greatly multiply your descendants so that they will be too many to count."
Gen_16:11 The angel of the LORD said to her further, "Behold, you are with child, And you will bear a son; And you shall call his name Ishmael, Because the LORD has given heed to your affliction.
Gen_22:11 But the angel of the LORD called to him from heaven and said, "Abraham, Abraham!" And he said, "Here I am."
Gen_22:15 Then the angel of the LORD called to Abraham a second time from heaven,
Gen_24:7 "The LORD, the God of heaven, who took me from my father's house and from the land of my birth, and who spoke to me and who swore to me, saying, 'To your descendants I will give this land,' He will send His angel before you, and you will take a wife for my son from there.
Exo_3:2 The angel of the LORD appeared to him in a blazing fire from the midst of a bush; and he looked, and behold, the bush was burning with fire, yet the bush was not consumed.
Moses sees the burning bush and in the bush is this enigmatic character, the Angel of the Lord. Who is this? What is it? What do the rabbis say? Some Christian scholars say it is Jesus! How can that be if one studies and asks the question what does the Bible say? No where in the Bible does it even hint at the fact that the angel is Jesus.
Once again we need to BRING OUR BRAIN to the Bible. We all agree this is the inspired word of God. In short we say the Bible is God's word. If so and God never said the angel of the Lord is Jesus, then how do some of our so called Christian scholars say it is Jesus? It is dangerous to put words in the Bible that are not there. I would rather it be taught with words like "is it possible that the angel of the Lord might be a manifestation of Jesus. Perhaps some Bible verses suggest this might be true." But there are many that seem to say they know the answer and it is their way or the highway. Not a good way to teach God's word.
In this lesson one question I pose, and I will again and again, who do you believe? Do you believe the orthodox rabbis? Do you believe so called Christian scholars? Or do you believe in THE VERY WORDS OF GOD? I suggest to you it must be the latter.
An excellent article on this topic can be found at this link.
Link - click here for the article from Crosswalk
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
The Hebrews cried out but they did not cry out to the Lord. The Bible is crystal clear on this. The Hebrew word for "cry out" is H2199 זעק pronounced ZA-A-KA. According to the Gesenius Hebrew Lexicon it is more a shriek of terror or a loud cry of total despair. Their ZA-A-KA made it to God's ears and then He remembered what's going on. Huh? Did God forget? Your Bible in English implies that God forgot! This is crazy.
It is very interesting that Moses chose H2199 זעק ZA-A-KA to use. Is it possible that the Hebrews cried out and it had something to do with the fact that the pharaoh died and a new pharaoh, his son, will now ascend to office? The Hebrew grammar and the archaeology says yes but there is even more. It looks as God Himself had a hand in all this. It could be the Lord needed to do something to His people to give them a good reason to leave Egypt. I mean, come on gang, why leave Egypt, the world's most powerful and richest kingdom then, and go back to Canaan? How does you get the Hebrews to want to leave and follow some 80 year old shepherd out of Egypt into the snake and scorpion infested deadly wilderness?
Moses enters the scene. He is the chosen redeemer of the Lord to get His people out of Egypt and to the Promised Land. One of the first things that happens is Moses comes to "The Mountain of God." It is so cool that this mountain moves - it's like God's RV. Yup, "The Mountain of God" moves from one place to another. Did you know that? It is a picture of the ultimate plan of God. And it's all right there, in the Bible, as plain as day. How do we miss it?
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
We read the Bible in English and we read the following ... "The water prevailed more and more upon the earth, so that all the high mountains everywhere under the heavens were covered." (Gen 7:19) This certainly implies in ENGLISH that the entire globe was covered by the flood. But, it is not written in English. It is written in Hebrew and the word that is translated as "earth" from the Hebrew is ארץ pronounced air-ritz (Strong's number H776). We need to put the Bible into its historical and cultural context and try and understand what ארץ air-ritz means then and not now in the 21st century.
Was it a worldwide flood? Does the Hebrew justify that conclusion? What if it's not? What if it is? I suggest that the point is that something more important is going on in the flood event. We get so bent out of shape with our belief that it is a worldwide flood or a local flood that we miss "the forest through the trees!" We have missed the point. Our prejudices blind us to the amazing lessons God is teaching us in His תּורה Torah which does NOT mean law but instruction.
Join us in lesson 20. Again, let's go deeper into His word and perhaps see that Moses may have been inspired by Adonai to teach the Gospel, the Good News, that the Lord has an amazing plan to rescue all mankind.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
I began this lesson with a review of the purposes of the Bible podcast study series entitled, "The Gospel According to Moses." There are two such series. The one in Genesis and this one, on the book of Exodus. I promised you a link to read the four purposes of this study. Here's the link - click here for the four purposes of this series
We will deal with three verses in the Torah that are very perplexing and problematic, Exod. 4:24-26. Real Hebrew scholars agree that in the Hebrew and not in the English these verses are puzzling. There are many who offer their views and ideas on what these verses mean but, it is absolutely clear, they are ignoring the original text of the Bible and the Hebrew. We will not.
This lesson is a prime example of how translators put in words in the Bible that are not in the original so that their view, their opinion is validated. This happens in Exod. 4:24-26. Just consider the verses ...
Now it came about at the lodging place on the way that the LORD met him and sought to put him to death. Then Zipporah took a flint and cut off her son's foreskin and threw it at Moses' feet, and she said, "You are indeed a bridegroom of blood to me." So He let him alone. At that time she said, "You are a bridegroom of blood"--because of the circumcision. (Exo 4:24-26)
This is the translation from the NASB and it is also in other versions like the ESV, the Message, NET, Scriptures 1998, and , of course, the NIV. The problem is that Moses' name NEVER OCCURS in the original Hebrew text nor is the Hebrew חתן דמים Chatan Dahmeem translated as the "bridegroom of blood" accurate. These are examples of men, translators, with a preconceived view of the meaning of the verses. Not only do they show their lack of Hebrew knowledge but they actually insert a word into the Bible text so the Bible text says what they want it to mean! It is as if I was writing the New Ferret Version, NFV, and did the following in a verse you know well. I added the word highlighted in black ...
Now in those cold days of December days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth. This was the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. And everyone was on his way to register for the census, each to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, in order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child. While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth. And she gave birth on Christmas December 25th the year 0 to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. (Luk 2:1-7)
I can't do this! I can not add to God's word. Doing this is a simple stupid example of me trying to provide Biblical backup for my preconceived views about the birth of Jesus. (FYI - I don't hold to the belief that Jesus was born in December) This is almost, to me, a major sin. By adding to God's word to prove my view - as the translators did by adding Moses' name in Exod. 4:24-26 - we distort God's word and perhaps even change the intended meaning that the Lord wanted us to understand. But, that is exactly what happened in these verses.
Dr. John Currid, and amazing devout Christian Bible scholar, theologian, and archaeologist, has written a commentary on the Torah. He proposes a solution to the questions that arise in these verses that really deals with the exact Hebrew and he does not offer hypotheticals. Other scholars like Nahum Sarna in the JPS Torah Commentary offer their ideas and solutions but none compare to Currid's. Of course the orthodox rabbis have their ideas. They claim Moses was to be killed by God since when Moses arrived at the inn and (are you ready for this??) Moses was too concerned with making arrangements for their stay and delayed the circumcision. This comes directly from the orthodox Torah commentary called the "Chumash" from Artscroll. Huh? The Bible does not say that! The Bible in Hebrew does not use Moses' name nor does it say Moses had to make hotel arrangements. The orthodox rabbis are making up stuff to try and solve the dilemma posed by these verses. This is an example of MIDRASH, Jewish rabbinic study, that is not sound midrash. The orthodox rabbis offer a hypothetical as truth. How come they can not suggest solutions from what the Bible actually says rather than suggesting solutions that are not credible? And yet many gentile Messianic Christians buy into this since it's from the rabbis. Well, they say. It it's from the rabbis it has to be true, right? Wrong. One needs to also be very careful with Jewish rabbitical midrash and sort out the true and credible from the hypotheticals and contrived translations. We have to do the same thing with supposed Christian Bible scholars as well since most completely avoid the study of the Bible in its historical context. They also have no training in the Greek or the Hebrew. They have very little in fact of the critical tools to help us grasp the meaning of God's word.
In these three verses one question is who is God trying to kill? Is God trying to kill Moses? Gershom, his first born son? One can not determine the answer in the Hebrew and the original Masoretic text of the Torah. On top of that why did the translators translate the Hebrew חתן דמים Chatan Dahmeem as "the bridegroom of blood?" In these verses Moses' name it not brought up. Even if was Moses he is not a bridegroom - he's been married for a number of years and has two sons! He is not a bridegroom. So, what alternative meanings are there for the Hebrew חתן דמים Chatan Dahmeem?
Dr. Currid offers a possible real solution that takes us to the Cross. I was truly amazed and it only makes sense in that God, Yeshua the Messiah, our Lord, stated that all scripture testifies of Him. The primary books of the Bible then were the five books of Torah. These verses seem to relate to the first born, blood, covenant, and being saved from God's wrath. It's as if these are pictures that are like mirrors of future events. Curious? Wondering how the circumcision of Moses' son is connected to the crucifixion of the Lamb of God? Come join us in the important podcast on three perplexing verses.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In Jesus' day the only Bible they had then was the Hebrew Scriptures (a.k.a. the Old Testament). In Matt 16:18 we read that Jesus will build His ECCLESIA G1577 upon a rock. But, Jesus did not mean church as we know it in the 21st century. He did not mean a building or an organization or a religion. He meant "a gathering of citizens called out from their homes into some public place; an assembly" from Thayer's Greek Lexicon. So He meant people. How do you relate a group of people to a ROCK?
One thing that is possible is it may be connected to the location of where Jesus said this. He said it at a pagan Roman city called Caesarea Philippi 25 miles north of the sea of Galilee. This city was the location of a rock formation where pagans came to worship the god Pan in bizarre and immoral rituals. This was a "holy" pagan religious site where of pagan gods even from Old Testament days. Ray Vander Laan has an excellent (short) article related to this archaeological site and how it might connect to Jesus' words. Here's the link - https://www.thattheworldmayknow.com/gates-of-hell-article
Here's a link to an awesome scholarly resource where you can study this archaeological site in detail with awesome pictures. Link - https://www.biblewalks.com/banias
Jesus at this place talks about building His assembly of followers on a ROCK. But, this is a place where an assembly of pagans gathered at a ROCK to worship pagan gods and goddesses. Is there something the Lord wants us to understand? But, in the book of Isaiah we read ...
"Listen to me, you who pursue righteousness, Who seek the LORD: Look to the rock from which you were hewn And to the quarry from which you were dug. Look to Abraham your father And to Sarah who gave birth to you in pain; When he was but one I called him, Then I blessed him and multiplied him." (Isa 51:1-2)
Bible commentators both Jewish and Christian say this verse suggests that Abraham is the ROCK. And all the disciples of Jesus had then was the Hebrew Scriptures. They very likely knew this verse. So, did they somehow relate Jesus' words to Abraham? Needless to say we have some interesting connections to explore. This is what we will do in lesson 58. We will again study the life of Abraham and use it as a EULOGY to this man who is our "father" by faith as Paul teaches us in ...
Even so Abraham BELIEVED GOD, AND IT WAS RECKONED TO HIM AS RIGHTEOUSNESS. Therefore, be sure that it is those who are of faith who are sons of Abraham. (Gal 3:6-7)
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's descendants, heirs according to promise. (Gal 3:28-29)
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link -click here for the teacher's background
This is session 3 part 2. We continue with the verse 1 Cor 3:16 and 1 Cor 6:19. Everyone when asked who dwells in us answers immediately that the Holy Spirit dwells in us. The Bible says it. For sure. But, there's more, much more. When we go deeper into the Biblical Greek we find an awesome concept from the Hebrew scriptures that is so important for us to grasp is times we are living through today.
In this session I mentioned two links I would provide. The first link is to an awesome website that will give you an amazing first hand tour of the Tabernacle Model in Timnah Park in Israel. Some of you may have visited a tabernacle model here in the states. But, to visit this one in Israel is to likely be in the area where the Hebrews actually camped overnight - right where this tabernacle model is located. It is roughly 7 miles from Yovatah on the north and roughly 7 miles or so from Avronah on the south (see Num. 33:34). The head of the park and I discussed this at length when Robin and I took a group there several years back. He was a Jewish Bible historian (named Moses!!) and we both knew that the Hebrews traveled about 7 miles per day (that is why M. Sinai could never be in Saudi Arabia!!). This means when you visit the tabernacle model in Timnah Park you are probably close to their camp sight between Yovatah and Avronah. Here's the link - https://www.holylandsite.com/timna-tabernacle
The second link is to an archaeological website. This site will provide you will a first hand look at the discoveries by Eilat Mazar of Solomon's palace complex just below where the Temple he built for the Lord. This is an awesome resource for your further study - http://templemountlocation.com/eilatMazar-SolomonicWall-RoyalComplex-SolomonPalace.html
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Truth Nuggets episode 3 is in two parts. The first part focuses on the meaning of how we are the Temple of God as in 1 Cor 3:16-17. Is every Christian a temple? Is my body a temple? If there are 2.5 billion Christians in the world does that mean there are 2.5 billion Temples of God in the world? Or have we missed something since we are not dealing with Biblical Greek. Are we being too self-centered to say we alone are a Temple of God? Yup, we missed something. And we will find what we think is a brand new Christian idea is actually a concept found all the way back to Genesis.
In this session I mentioned two links I would provide. The first link is to an awesome website that will give you an amazing first hand tour of the Tabernacle Model in Timnah Park in Israel. Some of you may have visited a tabernacle model here in the states. But, to visit this one in Israel is to likely be in the area where the Hebrews actually camped overnight - right where this tabernacle model is located. It is roughly 7 miles from Yovatah on the north and roughly 7 miles or so from Avronah on the south (see Num. 33:34). The head of the park and I discussed this at length when Robin and I took a group there several years back. He was a Jewish Bible historian (named Moses!!) and we both knew that the Hebrews traveled about 7 miles per day (that is why M. Sinai could never be in Saudi Arabia!!). This means when you visit the tabernacle model in Timnah Park you are probably close to their camp sight between Yovatah and Avronah. Here's the link - https://www.holylandsite.com/timna-tabernacle
The second link is to an archaeological website. This site will provide you will a first hand look at the discoveries by Eilat Mazar of Solomon's palace complex just below where the Temple he built for the Lord. This is an awesome resource for your further study - http://templemountlocation.com/eilatMazar-SolomonicWall-RoyalComplex-SolomonPalace.html
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
"Truth Nuggets" - these are short Bible studies in their historical context. Our goal is to "walk those ancient streets and paths" with those ancient believers to reconnect to their day and their circumstances. In this way we can hear what they heard and see what they say and come to grasp with what God originally meant in His word written to them 2000 and 3000 years ago.
In this episode, "Truth Nugget 2," we wrestle with the concept of what does it mean to be in God's house, what does it mean to be a sheep in God's flock, or what does it mean to be a disciple of a rabbi, specially Rabbi Jesus? Are they all related? Is there perhaps something that binds all these concepts together? How does this relate to us as humans made in His image with a physical body and a spiritual soul?
Once again we put the Bible into its historical context and consider how thee verses may apply in Jesus' day and times. When we do it is amazing to see a more complete "picture" for us today as disciples of Rabbi Jesus, our Lord and Savior and our God. In the first podcast in this series I reference Dr. Craig Keener a noted and amazing Bible historian and scholar. I recommend you read his important article on the reason we study the Bible from its historical context.
Here is the link to the article - https://craigkeener.com/why-it-is-important-to-study-the-bible-in-context/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? The new series from Light of Menorah continues. It is entitled, What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In this vidcast (video), "Against the Gods," we will again study God's word in its historical context. However, this time we add a new perspective to our study.
We will continue to ask what those early believers heard and saw and understood when they first heard God's word. But, we will also see how God comes against the pagan gods and man made religions in the ancient Middle East in very unique ways in His word. This time we will see how God taught His people, the Hebrews, in ways that would make sense only to them in their day. We would not recognize it as we read the Bible. God is writing to a people thousands of years ago using concepts only they understood and not us.
Dr. John Currid, a highly credible Egyptologist, archaeologist, and theologian, wrote a book entitled, "Against the Gods." His thesis in the book is to show us how we in the 21st century miss how God taught His people in their time using things they were familiar with. Here's an example Dr. Currid uses his paper, "The Nature of Polemical Thought and Writing." He writes ...
A STRONG HAND
Some common expressions found in ancient Egyptian texts to describe the power of Pharaoh over his foes are that the monarch had “a strong hand,” or “he possessed a strong arm,” or he was “the one who destroyed his enemies with his arm.” It is ironic that the author of the book of Exodus assigns the same features to the Lord as he humiliates and destroys Pharaoh and Egypt (Ex. 3:19–20; 6:1; 7:4; 15:6, etc.). James Hoffmeier, a famous Egyptologist, comments on this parallel, asking, “what better way for the Exodus traditions to describe God’s victory over Pharaoh, and as a result his superiority, than to use Hebrew derivations or counterparts to Egyptian expressions that symbolized Egyptian royal power?”
For most of us this would have escaped us completely. We are not familiar with ancient Egyptian writings nor are we into the ancient culture and customs on Egypt in the days of Moses. But, God is clearly inspiring Moses to use an Egyptian idiom that the Hebrews would have been familiar with. God uses this to come against Pharaoh and show His power over Pharaoh and all Egypt. In this way God uses something Egyptian to teach His people about Himself and His character. However, we will also see that these amazing lessons that made sense to those first believers also make sense to us today in the 21st century.
Ready? Let's begin our first lesson. Let's see how God uses Genesis 1:1 to teach His people coming out of Egypt that He is God and not Amun Ra. Let's also see how this relates to us today, us being His people, and knowing that God never changes (Mal. 3:6). He was the same 3400 years ago and today.
Link to John Currid's article referenced above - https://www.monergism.com/thethreshold/sdg/polemic.html
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
One main goal of this Torah study is to seek how the Torah testifies of Jesus. Jesus said in John 5:39 near 2000 years ago that ALL scripture testifies of Him. There was NO New Testament. All they had then was the Hebrew Scriptures, the Old Testament. (I don't like that name. Nothing OLD about God's word. God even teaches us in His own words that His Word is life bread for us - see Deut. 8:3 and Exod. 13:7-9).
So, how does the flood event testify of Jesus? How does it help us understand the Gospel of the Kingdom? These are awesome questions and are so much more important than us arguing over if the flood was a worldwide event or a local flood. So many of us get hung up on the wrong questions. There was a flood. May have been worldwide. Maybe not. The only people left after the flood was Noah and his family. To them it sure seemed like their "world" - the immediate area where they lived - was totally destroyed. But, it wasn't necessarily the entire globe.
The issue is why the flood and what did it solve if anything. We Christians don't get what Jesus said between 24-30 A.D. when He told us that all scripture testifies of Him. How does the flood testify of the coming Messiah? How does the flood testify of the Gospel? Seems to be more important than if the flood was worldwide or not which is such a beginner's question.
The Hebrew word translated as "the earth" is הארץ pronounced HA ER ITZ. This Hebrew word is used for the whole earth in Genesis 6-9; but it is also used specific area of land or even as your backyard garden or some mud in your hand! This word can not be used to verify that the flood was worldwide. In this lesson we will show that there is still a clear scientific and archaeological debate on this issue. But, who cares? The flood happened! Why? What was God teaching us? And how does it testify of Jesus?
I mentioned in this lesson about the upcoming webinar that Lois Tverberg will be doing Oct. 5-9. It is entitled, "How God Used the Torah to Save the World." Yes. Makes sense. This outstanding Christian Bible scholar is also saying that the early church, right out of the shoot, used the Torah to preach the Gospel of the Kingdom and the salvation for all people, Jew and Gentile. She like me is helping us understand that the only "bible" they had in Jesus' day was the "Old" Testament or the Hebrew Scriptures. Those first disciples changed the world with the Old Testament and specifically the Torah. For more info on Lois and her upcoming seminar here's the link - click here to get all the details of Lois' upcoming webinar
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Our focus in lesson 31 is on two verses. The first is Exod. 11:2 and the second is Exod. 11:5.
"Speak now in the hearing of the people that each man ask from his neighbor and each woman from her neighbor for articles of silver and articles of gold." (Exo 11:2)
“… and all the firstborn in the land of Egypt shall die, from the firstborn of the Pharaoh who sits on his throne, even to the firstborn of the slave girl who is behind the millstones; all the firstborn of the cattle as well.” (Exo 11:5)
These two verses show us that the Torah, the books of Moses, are as relevant today as they were then. It is God’s instruction (that is what תּוֹרָה Torah means in the Hebrew) and God was instructing the Hebrews back then in 1446 B.C. and His original message was meant for them and us. But, we need to study the word and try and grasp what those Hebrews saw and heard and understood, God's original intent and message then, so our understanding of how it relates to us today is enriched and enhanced.
In Exod. 11:2 we find along with two other verses in Exodus that the Egyptians are called by God the “neighbors” of the Hebrews. Later God commands in Lev. 19:18 and 19:34 that we are to love our neighbor as ourselves and we are to love the stranger as ourselves. Thus, combining 19:18 and 19:34 together, the stranger is our neighbor! God is teaching them then and us today that someone we don’t know, who is perhaps of a different faith, who holds to a different sexual orientation, who is foreign born, a total stranger, we are to treat them as if they were our neighbor - someone we know personally and lives with us of close to us. In this podcast we will unpack this and relate it to the Platinum Rule and the Golden Rule.
Platinum Rule – treat others how they would like to be treated. Or another way of saying it is do unto others they way they want to be treated.
Golden Rule - do unto others as you would have them do unto you. This is from Matt 7:12
Today some say the Platinum Rule now replaces the Golden Rule. Some say the Golden Rule is archaic and no longer valid for today. It is seemingly an attack on the Bible by some, on the very words of God. These views show that many have a limited and very incomplete understanding of the Bible. If one does not study the Jewish roots of the New Testament, the Jewish background, one can easily be mislead by those who say the Golden Rule of the Bible is dead.
In this lesson we will show that the Golden Rule and the Platinum Rule are both in the Bible and are applications of the Torah - both come out of the rabbis applying Lev. 19:18 and 19:34. They are not separate rules but, for the rabbis, they are applications of these verses. We will see that years before Jesus that it was being taught that we are to love the stranger as our neighbor and we are to treat, as best as we can, the stranger the way the stranger would like to be treated. On top of that we will see that the Platinum Rule itself is actually taught by Paul. In lesson 31 we will see that God’s word, His תּוֹרָה Torah, is so applicable today. We shouldn’t be surprised. Jesus said sometime between 24-30 A.D. that ALL scripture testifies of Him. All they had then was the Hebrew Scriptures, the Old Testament. The main books of the Bible in Jesus’ day was the תּוֹרָה Torah. How dare us not study the very words of God that God Himself says testifies of Him.
There is a great article on the Golden Rule vs. the Platinum Rule at a website entitled, www.TBLfaithnews.com. Just go to the website and in their search window simply enter, “Platinum Rule.” I am indebted to these Christian teachers for some awesome insights to on this topic.
As we study the Golden Rule vs. the Platinum Rule I mentioned I’d link you to a chapter from one of my class books. This chapter is on the parable of the Good Samaritan. Jesus’ parable has everything to do with this issue. In this parable it is clear that Jesus is saying our enemy is our neighbor. Once again, the Lord is so consistent. This is what He initially taught His people coming out of Egypt. Here’s the link to this chapter for your further study - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ju6zum2rzcu6srs/Parables2..GoodNeighbor..pages15..31may21.pdf?dl=0
The second issue we will deal with in this lesson is what is the name of the Pharaoh of the Exodus. This results from the verse Exod. 11:5. In this verse all first born will die. But, Pharaoh did not die. But, studying the ancient culture of Egypt we learn that the 1st born son of a Pharaoh was considered the “crown prince” and this would be the next Pharaoh. So, the Pharaoh in the Exodus didn’t die. Thus, if the Bible is true and 100% accurate, the Pharaoh of the Exodus must not have been the first born. What is amazing is if we put the Bible in its historical context we will be able to determine the name of this Pharaoh from the clue the Bible gives that Pharaoh of the Exodus had an older brother as well as the next Pharaoh in line.
I recommend you also study lesson 5 parts 1 & 2 in this series. These podcasts deal with the dating of the Exodus. So podcasts 5 parts 1 & 2 and this lesson are extremely important for you if you are a serious student of the Bible. Here’s the links to these podcasts.
Part 1 – https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/the-gospel-according-to-moses-exodus-lesson-5-part-1-the-archaeology-of-the-exodus/
Part 2 - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/the-gospel-according-to-moses-exodus-lesson-5-part-2-1446-bc/
I also am linking you to Dr. Doug Petrovich’s new videos. The topic is the Pharaoh of the Exodus. In this podcast I deal with one aspect of the discussion that the Pharaoh of the Exodus was Amenhotep II. Dr. Petrovich in his videos gives even more amazing archaeological and historical fact to support his. You may even want to get his latest books and DVD’s. This is one Christian proven credible scholar you will want to “study under” to do deeper into your Bible understanding. Here’s the links to the videos.
Video 1 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1oslIgQPekQ&t=1s
Video 2 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqUC3jAwAMc&t=2s
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In Exodus 34:6-7 Adonai, the Lord our God, teaches Moses on Sinai what He is like. Among the rabbis these verses are called the 13 Attributes of Adonai.
Then the LORD passed by in front of him and proclaimed, "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in lovingkindness and truth; who keeps lovingkindness for thousands, who forgives iniquity, transgression and sin; yet He will by no means leave the guilty unpunished, visiting the iniquity of fathers on the children and on the grandchildren to the third and fourth generations." (Exo 34:6-7)
Two attributes really stand out when it comes to the Pharaoh of the Exodus. God is slow to anger and abounding in loving kindness. These attributes along with John 3:16, say that God loves the whole world (even Pharaoh). And this along with the Hebrew (NOT ENGLISH) give us an alternative view of the phrase "God hardened Pharaoh's heart." We have learned from credible Jewish and Christian scholars that it seems IN THE HEBREW that God was trying to help Pharaoh make the right decision, to chose the path of righteousness of the God of Israel, and to turn from his immovable and strong commitment to his gods. This is clear when we actually learn that the phrase "God hardened Pharaoh's heart" needs to be corrected! There are three unique Hebrew words that our translators said meant hardened! How did this happen? Their translation seems to be based upon their bias and has clouded the deeper and more enhanced meaning.
There is a verse in the King James version that is an example. It shows the traditional view that has come down to us through the ages. It is ... "And Moses and Aaron did all these wonders before Pharaoh: and the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, so that he would not let the children of Israel go out of his land." (Exo 11:10) Thus we learn in this translation that God caused Pharaoh to bring upon all Egypt the 10th awesome and terrible plague. However, the Hebrew shows us something quite different. The English of the verse from the Hebrew is ... "And Moses and Aaron did all these signs before Pharaoh and gave courage (NOT STIFFENED OR HARDENED- mistaken translation) the Lord the heart of Pharaoh and he did not let out the sons of Israel of his land." Exod. 11:10 (translation from "Hebrew Study Bible" from the Westminster Lenigrad Codex). The Hebrew shows us that it is very possible that time and again as we have seen in lessons 12 till 30 in this series that God was trying to help Pharaoh make the right decision and turn from his gods without forcing Pharaoh's hand and taking away Pharaoh's free will. The Hebrew, and NOT our traditional views based upon the translators' beliefs, gives us an alternative view that seems to be more correct. This alternative view then supports what God is like by His own words as we read above in Exod. 34:6-7 and John 3:16.
I urge you to study the videos entitled "His Highnesses' Heavy Heart." In these videos it is shown that there is an alternative equivalent meaning to the phrase in our English Bibles, "God hardened Pharaoh's heart." The material presented is backed up with solid Jewish and Christian scholarship. If you are serious about your Bible study these videos are a must so that the Ten Plagues and Pharaoh are understood in a deeper and more enhanced way. Links -
Part 1 = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dNw1742eiWc&list=PLvcIXun2BQDIw6myuMPTvlWHUu9AJqXip&index=21
Part 2 = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZSsExt9Hbw&list=PLvcIXun2BQDIw6myuMPTvlWHUu9AJqXip&index=20
But, one thing we know of the Lord, He knows all. He knew right from the "get go" that Pharaoh would not do the right thing. The Lord told Moses this at the burning bush. Remember? "But I know that the king of Egypt will not permit you to go, except under compulsion. So I will stretch out My hand and strike Egypt with all My miracles which I shall do in the midst of it; and after that he will let you go." (Exo 3:19-20) The actual Hebrew for "under compulsion" is " a strong hand." The Hebrew does not say God will force Pharaoh to free Israel but that God will war against Pharaoh and the gods of Egypt with a "strong hand" which will finally convince Pharaoh to relent and let the people go. It is almost as if God is teaching us that He knew the end, He knew what Pharaoh would bring upon himself and all Egypt. God shows us that He'd try and help Pharaoh do the right thing. God seems to be teaching us about the power of evil and wickedness and that the final result is the evil and wicked will bring themselves to the brink of destruction and not the Lord. Pharaoh's story is our story. Pharaoh's strong stubborn evil worldview is just like us. Thank God that we have this promise ... "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. (Joh 3:16-17) In 1446 B.C. the Hebrew shows us that the Lord was being a SAVIOR to Pharaoh and to try and encourage his mind to do the right thing. And it is true now, we too need a SAVIOR. He has come in the flesh and we all can now proclaim Jesus is our Lord, Jesus is our God, Jesus is the ONLY God. And through the Cross we are redeemed and saved from our sins and delivered from His wrath coming upon all nations. So we cry out, "Maranatha Lord Jesus" which comes from the Hebrew מָרָנָא אֲתָה - marana attah - the Lord will come!
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In the 9th plague God brings darkness upon all Egypt for three days. It is a darkness that the Torah says can be "felt" and it was a "thick" darkness. It was so awesome that people did not even move or seemingly travel around for the three days. What is going on?
Some say it was a dust storm from Arabia. They try and make it a natural occurrence. Many try and make the plagues something that can be explained. But, in this case. This darkness is unnatural. One could feel it. It was so thick it prevented moving around. And, it probably was a blackness, unnatural, since it related to the religion of the pagan Egyptians and the Hebrews who had bought into the wrong story and assimilated into the pagan Egyptian culture.
For the Hebrews they may have seen it in light of what was familiar to them then. It may have been that the Hebrews, and even many Egyptians, as a picture of the Lord bringing back the darkness prior to the creation as understood by the Egyptians. One must study the cosmologies of the Egyptians, their creation myths, to understand how this might relate. In Exod. 12:12 the Lord says He will come against ALL the gods of Egypt. This darkness, this total lack of light, is as if God took all Egypt back to the days before Amun-Ra, the sun god, the god of light, creates himself. This is taking the earth back to primordial state that the Egyptians said was total chaos. Pharaoh's job was to prevent chaos and preserve Ma'at. Ma'at the supreme goddess of truth, order, peace, and harmony and well being. But, Pharaoh could not. But the Lord brought upon all Egypt the chaos that all Egypt lived to stop and preserve Ma'at.
There is a cute video on YouTube that does a good job on the Egyptian creation myths. Here's the link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTy49JlgJZE
In Exod. 12:12 the Lord says He will come against all the gods of Egypt. I mentioned the scholar David Padfield who did a brilliant job on relating the gods of Egypt to the plagues. Here's a link to this free resource by David Padfield - https://www.padfield.com/acrobat/history/gods_of_egypt.pdf
Here are key lessons in our podcast series that you may want to review or perhaps listen to for the 1st time. They are ...
Podcast - Exodus - 4 part 2 - dealing with the Biblical support that the Hebrews after Jacob dies and then Joseph assimilated into the pagan Egyptian culture. Thus, God needed to use Egyptian concepts to return His chosen people back to Himself. He needed to teach them by giving them the Torah, His teachings, to get Egypt out of the Hebrews - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-wdzur-f82194
Articles - For further study use this link to study the idea that the Hebrews had assimilated into the pagan culture of Egypt. Here's the link - https://www.dropbox.com/home/2019...2020%20Twelfth%20Season/Egypt%20Exodus%20Passover%20Pharaoh%20Moses?preview=Hebrews+Assimilated+into+Egypt.pdf
Podcast - Genesis 5 - the podcast showing how God comes against the creator gods of Egypt - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-67ye7-da9f7a
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
There are four purposes to the podcast teaching series on the Torah. There are two studies, this one on the book of Exodus and a second on the book of Genesis. The four purposes can be found at this link – click here for the four purposes of this study
A major purpose is to listen to THE VERY WORDS OF GOD when Jesus said …
"You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me.”(Joh 5:39)
Jesus said this between 24-30 A.D. and in those days there was no New Testament. So, those first disciples, like the 120 who were on the Mt. of Olives the day Jesus ascended to the Father, all they had was the Hebrew scriptures, the Old Testament (nothing “old” about it), and this is what they used to change the world; they used the Old Testament to proclaim the Gospel, the Kingdom of the Lord, the crucifixion and resurrection of Messiah, they used it to testify about Jesus, who He is and why He came. Just read what Stephen said before he was murdered in Acts 7 - all his scripture references are from the Hebrew scriptures. Therefore, if this is the case, we should “see” Jesus in the Old Testament.
In those days 24-30 A.D. the primary books of the Hebrew scriptures were the Torah, the first five books of the Bible, Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers , and Deuteronomy. And we ask ourselves the question again and again, how did they “see” Jesus, how did they hear the Torah that testifies of Him? That is one of the main purposes of this podcast Bible study series.
In this lesson focusing on Exod. 4:17-23 we read that Israel is God’s son, His first born son. This is so amazing. For us this reminds us of another son of God, His ONLY begotten son, Yeshua, our Lord, Jesus. How are Israel and Yeshua connected? It is almost as if you can’t take Israel out of Jesus and you can’t take Jesus out of Israel. They are intimately connected. Just consider a few verses in Isaiah that talk about Israel. God’s servant that also clearly mean Messiah, Jesus, God’s servant.
Isa_41:8 "But you, Israel, My servant, Jacob whom I have chosen, Descendant of Abraham My friend,
Isa_44:1 "But now listen, O Jacob, My servant, And Israel, whom I have chosen:
Isa_44:21 "Remember these things, O Jacob, And Israel, for you are My servant; I have formed you, you are My servant, O Israel, you will not be forgotten by Me.
Isa_45:4 "For the sake of Jacob My servant, And Israel My chosen one, I have also called you by your name; I have given you a title of honor Though you have not known Me.
Isa_49:3 He said to Me, "You are My Servant, Israel, In Whom I will show My glory."
And then we come to Isaiah 53 and we read about the ONE who has the following characteristics …
He was despised and forsaken of men, A man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; And like one from whom men hide their face He was despised, and we did not esteem Him. Surely our griefs He Himself bore, And our sorrows He carried; Yet we ourselves esteemed Him stricken, Smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; The chastening for our well-being fell upon Him, And by His scourging we are healed. All of us like sheep have gone astray, Each of us has turned to his own way; But the LORD has caused the iniquity of us all To fall on Him. (Isa 53:3-6)
Is this “servant” of the Lord? Is this Israel? But wait a minute. Let’s study Isaiah 53 very closely and we find …
But the LORD was pleased To crush Him, putting Him to grief; If He would render Himself as a guilt offering, He will see His offspring, He will prolong His days, And the good pleasure of the LORD will prosper in His hand. As a result of the anguish of His soul, He will see it and be satisfied; By His knowledge the Righteous One, My Servant, will justify the many, As He will bear their iniquities. (Isa 53:10-11)
The servant of the Lord is Israel. The Bible says it. But, the servant of the Lord is the ONE in Isaiah 53 who is Jesus. How can Jesus be the servant when the servant is Israel? How can the servant be Israel when the servant is this suffering one, Jesus? How can Israel be God’s first born son when God’s ONLY begotten son is Jesus? It seems that you can’t take Jesus out of Israel nor Israel out of Jesus.
Come and join us. Be like one of those disciples in 24-30 A.D. who lived by obeying John 8:31-32 and studied Torah to see that all scripture testifies of Jesus. In this lesson we will again see how the Torah testifies of Yeshua HaMasiach, Jesus the Messiah, Jesus the Christ in these dramatic events of the Exodus.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
It seems as if that the flood event (note I use the word EVENT and not story since the flood happened. It is not a story like Cinderella or Treasure Island) - the flood event seems to have something to do with us being given the awesome right to choose freely, freedom of choice. I ask why did God do this? It seems such a dangerous thing to do, to allow us, us humans, to be able to decide for ourselves between one thing and another.
The rabbis refer to this freedom of choice as יֵצֶר הַרַע or Yehtzer HARA, the evil inclination and יֵצֶר טוֹב or Yehtzer TOV, the good inclination. In Gen. 6:5 it seems that all of mankind was prone to choosing evil continually or their יֵצֶר הַרַע Yehtzer HARA, the evil inclination, was stronger than their יֵצֶר טוֹב or Yehtzer TOV, the good inclination. But, God gave us this freedom of choice and, right from the "get go," we chose poorly.
So, is the purpose of flood related to all this? Is it related to the overpowering leaning we have to choose evil and sin? God said He would blot out all mankind since He was sorry He had made them. So, the flood "cleansed" the earth of all wicked evil men, those whose יֵצֶר הַרַע Yehtzer RA, the evil inclination, was stronger than their יֵצֶר טוֹב or Yehtzer TOV, the good inclination. But, wait a minute. God also came to cleanse humankind again. He came and died for us and by 1 John 1:7 His blood cleansed us from all sin! But, it is not given unless we use our יֵצֶר טוֹב or Yehtzer TOV, the good inclination to choose Christ, the Messiah.
Hmmm. Are these events connected? Is God trying to teach us something much more awesome than if the flood happened or if it was worldwide or local. It seems the answer is YES.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
From Abraham Cohen’s excellent scholarly work, “Everymans’ Talmud,” we read that in Judaism today and in the days of Jesus, one’s death was more important than one’s birth. Jews will rejoice at a person’s death if they were righteous and live a life living according to the ways of the Lord. Don’t rejoice at a person’ birth. One being born is just beginning their life. Will they live righteously? Will do amazing things by the power of the hand of the Lord? Or, will they live sinful lives, unrighteous before God and man? We don’t know. So, thus, we celebrate the death of a righteous person.
This idea of the importance of the death of a person over the birth of a person is shown in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. There are only 41 verses or so relating to the birth of Christ in Matthew and Luke. But there are over 400 verses in the four gospels reporting on the death of Jesus. Of course! The gospels are books written by Jews in their Jewish Middle Eastern mindset 2000 years ago. The death of Jesus and the sacrifice of the cross is critically important to those Jewish gospel writers. Far different than Christians today in how we emphasize His birth that we call Christmas.
In lesson 57 we will continue to study Abraham and his life from the Jewish perspective. He first appears in Genesis 12 and the Torah is silent as to why Abraham was chosen by Adonai. But, at his passing, we are now able to go back and study Abraham’s life. We are able to consider ways God may have looked upon this man and chose Abraham to be our father in the faith as Paul teaches us in Rom. 4:13-16.
Abraham was given the gospel! So, in the Torah, the books of Moses, we first read of the gospel, the gospel according to Moses, as Paul shows us in Gal. 3:8. Now as we study the life of Abraham at his death, we will see Jesus. Just like Jesus said in John 5:39.
How is Abraham our father? How does all this relate to us today in the 21st century? We will find that Abraham put all things in his life below his love of God and his commitment to obey Him. One might say Abraham "hated" everything in his life as compared to his love of God. But, it isn't hate. The Hebrew word is שׂנא SANAY H8130 - can mean hate but equally can mean loved less, held in lower esteem, second place. Yes. Abraham put all in a lower position as compared to his love and faithfulness to the Lord. He is the epitome of Jesus was talking about in Luke 14:26 when Jesus taught ...
"If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate (not hate but SANAY - put all things in a lower position that our love and faith in Jesus) his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be My disciple. (Luk 14:26)
How can we come to have our understanding expanded and enriched as we understand that through Abraham’s seed (his descendants) that all will be blessed? How do we grasp that we are Abraham’s seed along with Jesus? Jesus is the blessing to all nations and we are to bring Him to all nations. Abraham was sent and he went. Jesus was sent and He went. Jesus sends us. Are we ready to go and be like our daddy, Abraham?
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
From Abraham Cohen’s excellent scholarly work, “Everymans’ Talmud,” we read that in the days of Jesus one’s death was more important than one’s birth. Rabbi Cohen presents a parable that shows the views of Second Temple Judaism then and Rabbinic Judaism today on this concept. There were two ships and one was leaving the harbor and the other was coming in after a long voyage. Many on the docks cheered and celebrated as the one ship began its journey. It was kind of a way to bolster the courage and hearts of the sailors going into the unknown. There was an old sailor standing on the dick with the crowd. He loudly stated, “why are you rejoicing over the ship beginning its journey. NO. Rather rejoice for the ship returning. The ship returning is coming home safe and has made it through its perilous voyage. For the ship leaving, do not rejoice. We have no idea whether their journey will be a success or failure; we don’t know whether the crew will be of stout heart and courage. But the ship returning tells us the story of its success and its triumph over struggles and the perils of their journey.” Rabbi Cohen then says to us that it is the same in life and death. Let us rejoice at a person’s death if they were righteous and live a life living according to the ways of the Lord. Don’t rejoice at a person’ birth. One being born is just beginning their life. Will they live righteously? Will do amazing things by the power of the hand of the Lord? Or, will they live sinful lives, unrighteous before God and man? We don’t know. So, thus, we celebrate the death of a righteous person.
This idea of the importance of the death of a person over the birth of a person is shown in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. There are only 41 verses or so relating to the birth of Christ in Matthew and Luke. But there are over 400 verses in the four gospels reporting on the death of Jesus. Of course! The gospels are books written by Jews in their Jewish Middle Eastern mindset 2000 years ago. The death of Jesus and the sacrifice of the cross is critically important to those Jewish gospel writers. Far different than Christians today in how we emphasize His birth that we call Christmas.
In lesson 56 we will deal with the death of Abraham. We will study Abraham and his life from the Jewish perspective. He first appears in Genesis 12 and the Torah is silent as to why Abraham was chosen by Adonai. But, at his passing, we are now able to go back and study Abraham’s life. We are able to consider ways God may have looked upon this man and chose Abraham to be our father in the faith as Paul teaches us in Rom. 4:13-16. Abraham was given the gospel! So, in the Torah, the books of Moses, we first read of the gospel, the gospel according to Moses, as Paul shows us in Gal. 3:8. Now as we study the life of Abraham at his death, we will see Jesus. Just like Jesus said in John 5:39. How is Abraham our father? How does all this relate to us today in the 21st century? How can we come to have our understanding expanded and enriched as we understand that through Abraham’s seed (his descendants) that all will be blessed? How do we grasp that we are Abraham’s seed along with Jesus? Jesus is the blessing to all nations and we are to bring Him to all nations. Abraham was sent and he went. Jesus was sent and He went. Jesus sends us. Are we ready to go and be like our daddy, Abraham?
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In this session we again review the three step process God inspired Paul to teach us regarding how to bring our requests before the Him. The 3rd step is to be thankful. We are to thank the Lord before He even does anything! Huh? That makes no sense! Not really if we are true sons and daughters of Abraham as Paul teaches about what a true Christian: "Therefore, be sure that it is those who are of faith who are sons of Abraham." (Gal 3:7) As sons of Abraham we believe God - we believe in God's promises and that what He has said is true and He will do what he promised. So, YES, thank the Lord even before He does anything.
If we put this verse into its historical context, if we try and and "hear" how a Jewish believer 2000 years ago, who only knew the Hebrew scriptures, may have understood this verse, it will enhance our way to applying this teaching of Paul, "For such a time as this." We will study another "picture" in the Hebrew scriptures that is "hidden" from us since we do not live in Israel or the Middle East. This picture has everything to do with an animal called the IBEX or in Hebrew, the AY YAH LAH, that is translated into English as "deer" or "hind." The AY YAH LAH is not a deer. It is not a hind. Check out the links below of two videos related to the IBEX. The first is a video Robin and I did in Wadi Avedat in the Negev in southern Israel. The 2nd is a BBC video which shows a dramatic way the ibex live on very high and dangerous places. So cool!!
Video 1 - click here for video 1 of the ibex in high places in WAdi Avedat
Video 2 - click here for a BBC video of the ibex on an almost vertical wall
Who's John Ferret? What's his background? Why should I listen to this guy? Here's a link to learn a little about Rev. Ferret - click here for background of the teacher
We continue our study of the verse Phil. 4:6-7 written around 60 A.D. Paul is instructing those 1st Messianic believers HOW to bring your requests before God! The Lord God is the supreme power over the universe, the ultimate judge, king of kings and the only God. Let us walk with those first Christians and try and grasp how they may have applied this instruction based upon the Hebrew scriptures 2000 years ago. Let us learn what God really meant then so we can pray in the same way they did. Their days were dark and difficult and even dangerous to be a Messianic Jew or Gentile. And we are in dark and difficult days when the forces of evil and the forces that are anti-God, anti-Bible, anti-Israel, anti-Christian, and anti-Christ have taken control of government, business, the media, and our schools.
Link for background on our teacher, Rev. John Ferret - click here for teacher background
This is part 2 of lesson 28. As we conclude we ask the question does God want us to understand Egypt and Pharaoh as a picture of God's plan for the future? Is it possible as God brought destruction and chaos on this one nation who followed the one man who said he was god, will He also do the same when many will follow the one man, the Beast, as the ruler of all the earth and who likened himself to God? Perhaps. It agrees with a concept in the Bible that the rabbis recognized. The lives of the fathers are signs of the future for the sons. In Hebrew "Ma'asay Avot seeman labaneem." One obvious example is the Passover lamb and the Lamb of God. The Passover lamb is associated with the redemption of God's people Israel as they put the blood of the lamb on the wood, the doorposts. But, it is like sing from the past that one is coming, the Lamb of God, who will bring redemption to God's people, Jew and Gentile who choose Yeshua as Lord and God and Savior, and will be spared the wrath of God because of the blood of the Lamb of God on the wood, the cross. This is one clear example of "Ma'asay Avot seeman labaneem." AS we put the Bible into its historical context we will see how the Lord does this again and again. So, does He connect the the Exodus to the book of Revelation? There are some who say yes.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Lesson 28 is in two parts. This first part will take us to Exod. 10:10 and part two to 10:20.
Time and time again Pharaoh experiences God’s power and wrath. In lesson 27 it was the hail. It destroyed a great part of the economy of Egypt. But, once Adonai relents and stops the hail and the storm, Pharaoh “hardens” his heart. On top of that this is also true for his servants as we read in Exod. 9:34 …
But when Pharaoh saw that the rain and the hail and the thunder had ceased, he sinned again and hardened his heart, he and his servants. (Exo 9:34)
We will again learn that as we put the Bible into its historical context and actually study the Hebrew, our understanding is clarified and enhanced. The Hebrew word in v.34 for harden is the Hebrew word כּבד H3513 or kahvod. It mean “heavy.” If you lived in Egypt in 1446 B.C. when these events likely occurred, Egyptians and the Hebrews would understand what is meant by a “heavy” heart. It is interesting to note that God does the same thing when we read Exod. 10:1.
Then the LORD said to Moses, “Go to Pharaoh, for I have hardened his heart and the heart of his servants, that I may perform these signs of Mine among them,” (Exo 10:1)
The English word is not a good word to give meaning to the Hebrew. Once again the Hebrew word is kahvod, meaning “heavy.” As I mentioned, if one is an Egyptian living when all this occurred or a Hebrew slave, they get it. We don’t. But, once we study the ancient culture of Egypt, once we study the Bible in its historical context, what Pharaoh did to his “heart” and what God did to his “heart” are too opposite applications. But what does it mean?
On top of that as we delve into this and study the word closely and carefully, verse 9:34 and 10:1 show us that God NEVER took away Pharaoh’s free will. When you study the historical context and the Hebrew it is almost silly to think God took away this man’s ability to chose freely. And yet, many still hold to the traditional view since they have not been taught about ancient Egypt and the Bible in it historical context.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In this lesson we confront some awesome questions? The first is who are the Nephilim? For us in the 21st century many say the nephilim are fallen angels. Where did that come from? We will see it is one opinion coming from both some non-Biblical literature of the late first century and the Zohar, a Jewish book of mysticism written in the Middle Ages. Upon further study, however, we find that other great rabbis disagreed with this opinion and they offered two other views. (For further study from a Jewish scholarly source I recommend this link - click here to read scholarly background on the nephilim from The Jewish Virtual Library). Both views of these rabbis of the Middle Ages, Rashi and Ibn Ezra, great rabbis in their own right, disagree. They also disagree with each other and with the view the nephilim are evil fallen angels. So, in Jewish literature we have at least three distinct views and each of them contradict the others. So, we Christians have bought into one view that has no Biblical basis at all.
Once again, let us confront this issue. Let us see if God's word helps us with a more realistic view of the nephilim. It does!
The second question is why did God destroy all mankind with the flood except for one man, Noah? Noah's sons and their wives and Noah's wife were rescued as well. But, Noah is the ONLY righteous man of his time not his sons, their wives, or Noah's wife. Why them? Moreover, Genesis chapters 1-11 is about non-Hebrews. Noah is not a Hebrew! This is related to all of us, all mankind.
I agree that the flood did happen. There is too much evidence from the cultures of the ancient Middle East that strongly suggest that the flood was real. But, so many today focus on trying to prove the flood had to be worldwide, or others who argue the flood was local, and others who say it is a myth. (I think it was local based upon the Hebrew and not English.) I suggest this focus is clouding the real issue, why did God do the flood? What was the result? Is there something we are missing that we can't see?
I will present a view that relates to Jesus' words in John 5:39 ... "You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me" (John 5:39 NASB). All they had was the Old Testament in Jesus' day. Therefore, is there a connection with the purposes of the flood and the reason for the Cross? There is. It seems likely the flood testifies of the Messiah.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Here is the link to the new video related to the birth of Messiah. You will also be able to watch, "He Was Laid in a Manger," which deals more with the archaeology and geography of the birth of Yeshua. Here's the link - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvcIXun2BQDIDJwr_Dh08wHXRAJyoZO1l
There is so much of Christmas that can hide the real significance of this season. It is not a HOLIDAY but it is a HOLY DAY. I wonder if הַשָּׂטָן Ha Satan - the adversary or the devil - is the one who did this and thus leading so many away from the chance of knowing the Savior. We almost need to take Christ and take Him OUT of Christmas and restore that which we lost. This video suggests the awesomeness of this event, the birth of Jesus, the Messiah. This video gives a picture of the Light of Messiah that came as John writes of it in John 1:9. It presents a picture that the birth of Jesus takes us from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21. This picture shows us this time of remembrance is a HOLY day and not a holiday. Let's study the Chiasm of the Light.
I mentioned in the videos that I would provide scholarly links to study the events and the archaeology of Jesus’ birth from the Associates for Biblical Research. These are a must if you want to come to grips with the reality of His birth and to expand your understanding of the Gospel of the Kingdom.
Link 1 to an article by Dr. Ken Bailey entitled, “The Manger and the Inn.” - https://biblearchaeology.org/new-testament-era-list/2803-the-manger-and-the-inn?highlight=WyJtYW5nZXIiLCJtYW5nZXInIl0%3D
Link 2 to a video by Gary Byers entitled, “Away in a Manger but Not a Barn.” (Videos below are all less than 10 minutes in length)
Part 1 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YveeRv50lmg
Part 2 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XzRG6jIVGoY
Part 3 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3I-YhXcx0qU
Part 4 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v1uSbfx8A04
Part 5 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=piNy0RwFUiE
Link 3 to an article by Gordon Melish, “There Wasn’t an Inn.” - https://biblearchaeology.org/research/devotionals/3643-there-wasnt-any-inn?highlight=WyJtYW5nZXIiLCJtYW5nZXInIl0%3D
Link 4 - Joel Kramer's video on the archaeology of Bethlehem - https://sourceflix.com/our-video/born-in-bethlehem/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Mary gave birth to her son, Jesus, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes and He was laid in a manger. This is so familiar to any and all Christians from and early age and throughout our lives. It is part of the “Christmas” story so much a part of our lives every year.
But, is there more that we can’t see? Is the manger and Jesus in the manger, does this relate to something more; something so common to our Christian experience?
This vidcast from Light of Menorah takes us back to ancient Israel to understand what a manger is and what it is used for. It takes us to Bethlehem to locate where mangers are found. This video takes us back 3400 years to ancient Egypt and the words of Adonai given to Moses in the Torah, the first five books of the Bible just before they left Egypt. And as we study the archaeology in Jesus’ day and the Torah, as we remember that Jesus said all scripture testifies of Him - He said this 2000 years ago when all they had was the Hebrew scriptures (a.k.a. the Old Testament) – this along with the picture of Jesus just born and lying in a manger explodes with meaning. We missed it since the “church” has been disconnected from its Jewish roots for hundreds and hundreds of years.
Are you ready for this? Let’s go.
I mentioned in the video that I would provide scholarly links to study the events and the archaeology of Jesus’ birth from the Associates for Biblical Research. These are a must if you want to come to grips with the reality of His birth and to expand your understanding of the Gospel of the Kingdom.
Link 1 to an article by Dr. Ken Bailey entitled, “The Manger and the Inn.” - https://biblearchaeology.org/new-testament-era-list/2803-the-manger-and-the-inn?highlight=WyJtYW5nZXIiLCJtYW5nZXInIl0=
Link 2 to a video by Gary Byers entitled, “Away in a Manger but Not a Barn.” -
Part 1 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YveeRv50lmg
Part 2 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XzRG6jIVGoY
Part 3 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3I-YhXcx0qU
Link 3 to an article by Gordon Melish, “There Wasn’t an Inn.” - https://biblearchaeology.org/research/devotionals/3643-there-wasnt-any-inn?highlight=WyJtYW5nZXIiLCJtYW5nZXInIl0=
Link 4 - Joel Kramer's video on the archaeology of Bethlehem - https://sourceflix.com/our-video/born-in-bethlehem/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In Gen. 6:2 we come across a troubling phrase. Let's look at it ...
Now it came about, when men began to multiply on the face of the land, and daughters were born to them, that the sons of God saw that the daughters of men were beautiful; and they took wives for themselves, whomever they chose. (Gen 6:1-2)
If we let the Bible translate the Bible we find that this exact phrase is used in four different ways in the Hebrew. First, we find this Hebrew phrase in Job 1:6, 2:1, and 38:7 where it is used to describe spiritual beings, likely angels in heaven with God. Second, it is used in a slightly different format meaning all of Israel in Deut. 14:1. Third, in Psalm 82:6 the phrase is used to describe the sons of rulers or kings. And finally, according to John Currid in his Torah commentary, "A Study Commentary: Genesis," it also can mean the descendants of Seth, the godly line directly from Adam who is called the "son of God" by Luke in his gospel in Luke 3:38.
So, who are the sons of God or the sons of the gods in verse 6:2? The phrase בני האלהים Benay Eloheem is made up to two plural nouns. The first is sons, or Benay. The second in Eloheem, translated commonly as God or gods. Are these "sons of God" fallen angels? Are they the Nephileem as noted in verse 6:4? Are they some weird pagan spiritual beings?
We will again put the Bible into its historical context. We will again try and "hear" God's word like the intended audience of the Torah, the Hebrews coming out of Egypt. Dennis Prager in his commentary on Genesis, "The Rational Bible: Genesis," comments that this is an ancient divine document and when God inspires Moses to write to the Hebrews coming out of Egypt 3500 years ago all this made sense to them.
Let us put the words of the Bible into their historical context and seek the way they may have understood the phrase the "sons of God;" how the Hebrews heard it coming out of Egypt may give us an alternative view that makes sense to us in the 21st century as well. Come. Join us. Let's go see.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Moses finally tells the Lord he does not want to do this task that Yahvay gave him; Moses does not want to return to Egypt and go to Pharaoh and tell Pharaoh, this man who is said to be a god, that God, the only God, demands Pharaoh to let the Hebrews go. As we put the Bible into its historical context and consider what was going on in Egypt at the time we would whole heartedly agree with Moses. I think we’d feel the same way if we clearly understood Moses’ circumstances as it relates to the Egyptian culture in the 15th century B.C.
The Lord, however, no matter the objection, has an answer for Moses. God picked Moses and the Lord will not let Moses off the hook. But, as we read in Psalm 23:1 in Hebrew and in English …
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want.
Mizmor LayDaveed Yahvay Ro’ee Lo Echsar.
The Hebrew word Echsar comes from the word חסר Chaseer H2537 and it has the picture concept of being diminished, getting to the end and having nothing left, being defeated, being left without. But, God is the Shepherd of Moses and us. He brings us into His sheepfold and as His sheep, as the ones given our good works after being saved by grace (Eph. 2:8-10), we are never without; we have all we need to do that which the Shepherd has given Moses to do or us. And just as the Jewish scholars saw that Moses was a mirror image of the coming Messiah and that the Messiah is reflected in Moses and as Messiah sent His disciples out two by two, so too does God, the Lord, send out Moses with Aaron two by two. Yes, we can understand Moses and his not wanting to go back to Egypt and do this task. We get it. But we also see that God always has everything planned and in place so that His agenda happens. This was true for Moses, Joshua, Gideon, Ruth, David, Jesus, His disciples, and us. Paul teaches us this attribute of the Lord true in the 15th century B.C. and today as we read in Rom. 8:28 …
And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Jesus says in Mat 21:42-45 ... Jesus said to them, "Did you never read in the Scriptures, 'THE STONE WHICH THE BUILDERS REJECTED, THIS BECAME THE CHIEF CORNER stone; THIS CAME ABOUT FROM THE LORD, AND IT IS MARVELOUS IN OUR EYES'? "Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people, producing the fruit of it. "And he who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; but on whomever it falls, it will scatter him like dust." When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard His parables, they understood that He was speaking about them. (Mat 21:42-45) Clearly, Jesus is saying He is this rejected stone that has become the chief cornerstone. Scholars agree that 1) Jesus is referring to Psalm 118:22-23 and 2) in Hebrew it says, "EVEN HAYEHTAH ROSH PEENA," or the stone has become the chief stone of the "place of turning." Scholars say his means is can be a cornerstone or possibly a keystone. The cornerstone is the 1st stone to set the course of the rest of the construction. The keystone is the last stone placed when constructing an arch - the two sides of the arch turn towards the final place where the last stone is inserted. This is the "place of turning." So, how is Jesus the cornerstone? This we studied in episode 4-6. Now we ask how is He the keystone? In this lesson we focus on the keystone of the arch. We ask then how does the Bible teach that Jesus is the last, the end, He who finishes what was started in Genesis, and how does He complete all things. We will be studying Moses and Messiah. There are some awesome connections between the them. Check out this article at the amazing website HEBREW4CHRISTIANS.COM. Here's the link to the article ... https://hebrew4christians.com/Articles/Like_Moses/like_moses.html
Here's the link to all episodes including episode 7 in the series, "Five Small Stones." Link - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvcIXun2BQDLrT9lFv4zupz1VmYwMBpwn
Our focus in lesson 27 is Exod. 9:13 – 10:1. The event is the plague of hail that was so awesome that there was nothing like it ever in the history of Egypt. For the Hebrews coming out of Egypt, the first ones to “hear” the words of Moses, the first five books of the Bible, sometimes called the תּוֹרָה Torah, meaning God’s instruction, they’d recall that Pharaohs always boasted of their mighty works and accomplishments. It’s like Thutmosis III who bragged he did amazing things that haven’t been done in Egypt, ever. Interesting. God, the LORD, יהוה Yahvay, the God of the Hebrews, seemingly is using things familiar in Egypt against the Egyptians. The LORD is saying He is the Lord, He is God, the only God, the one and only God. This is found in Deut. 6:4 when we read …
"Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD is one!” (Deu 6:4)
The Hebrew word translated as ONE is the word אֶחָֽד Ekhad. It does mean one but the concept is a oneness that is indivisible, a oneness that can not be separated into parts or persons. A better way then to think of the verse is substituting ONE for the phrase, “THE ONE AND ONLY,” or to take out ONE and say, “UNIQUE.”
So the Lord is the ONLY ONE who will bring upon Egypt something truly the Egyptians have ever experienced in the past or in the future. The hail storm was beyond imagination for any of us. But, to understand what is going on we need again to put the Bible back into its historical context. When we do the impact is our understanding is deepened and expanded.
We will also explore the motif in the Bible from the Garden to the End of Days about man’s deserve to turn from God and become a god himself – to determine his own right and wrong and his own will to meet his lower needs and desires and instincts. There is a word spoken against the king of Babylon in Isa. 14:3-23 who himself says he is god.
He said ‘I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.’ (Isa 14:14)
I bring this up as one of many examples of when men declare themselves as god. There is an important verse to consider. In the NASB it is …
“How you have fallen from heaven, O star of the morning, son of the dawn! You have been cut down to the earth, You who have weakened the nations!” (Isa 14:12)
But in the King James we read …
“How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!” (Isa 14:12)
This is an example of a major translation error where the translators of the King James inserted a “borrowed” Latin word from the translation of Jerome, an early church father. The borrowed word is LUCIFER. How can you substitute a Latin word (actually tow Latin words) that means only “light bearer.” Jerome did not use these Latin words to mean the name of the devil. However, his error and the misunderstanding of later translators hung onto Jerome’s error and it comes down to us today as the devil’s name. This is a huge mistake. In actuality, the devil has NO name. It isn’t Lucifer and it isn’t Satan. Satan is what the devil is and not his name. For further study check out these links to go into this in a more detailed manner.
Link 1 - https://www.franknelte.net/article.php?article_id=218
Link 2 - https://www.baslibrary.org/bible-review/14/6/15
Pharaoh seems to repent. This plague was so awesome that Pharaoh says that he has sinned and all of Egypt. However, it seems his repentance is only a way for Pharaoh to think he has once again manipulated the LORD, יהוה Yahvay. For once the hail stops Pharaoh gives courage to his heart. His way of manipulating the God of the Hebrews is working. It works every time. Pharaoh thinks he is winning. He is building up his courage more and more as a mighty god of Egypt. But, there is only one God. There is only one Lord. There is only one King of the Universe. In Exod. 10:1 God makes Pharaoh’s heart “heavy” and this should be studied in light of the Hebrew language and the culture of ancient Egypt. Thus, it is highly recommended that if you are serious about your continued study of the Bible in its historical context, then you must watch the two videos entitled, “His Highness’ Heavy Heart.” Here’s the link to the videos.
Part 1 - https://youtu.be/dNw1742eiWc
Part 2 - https://youtu.be/dZSsExt9Hbw
So come and join us now. As we once again return to 1446 B.C. and ancient Egypt in March or April. Come and let us see that indeed there is one and only one God and Lord of all.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
God is pounding Egypt with His awesome hammer - boom, boom, boom. Plague after plague. One thing about the Lord is He shows us that He cares for His chosen ones, Israel. We see this in the next plague. But, God tells us that He protects His people, His chosen ones, always. It is a trait of the Lord God Most High. He said He was the same then, now, and forever. He told us in Mal. 3:6 that He doesn’t change. Consider this ...
Isaiah 41:10 fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Psalm 121:7-8 The LORD will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. 8 The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore.
This is our hope. This is our desire. God come and take care of us, your chosen ones.
But, what is interesting. This seems to be related to the coming Tribulation. We study the very words of God and His elect will be going through the Tribulation. Uh oh. It seems clear that connecting Revelation and the very words of God, the words of Jesus, shows we are His elect and we will be in the Tribulation (no rapture!!) and as the Hebrews were sheltered by the Lord in Egypt, our hope is that He will shelter us when His HAMMER falls again and again during the Tribulation. Our hope is in Him since He said He is the same then, now and forever. The good news is we are grafted in to the olive tree Israel and are joint heirs of the promises of the Lord. God said He will gather in His elect, His chosen ones, in the end of days. Not a rapture but and in gathering. We Gentiles as Jesus’ other flock will join with Israel His first flock, the Jewish Messianic Christians, and become on flock with one Shepherd.
Here are the links I mentioned in this lesson. The first two and links to articles on the end of days and the “Jewish Rapture” or the ingathering of God’s elect, His chosen.
Link 1 –
https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/0da55621/files/uploaded/Rapture.pdf
Link 2 –
https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/0da55621/files/uploaded/4ZW5Bbv3Tz2gNtsgeqkL_The%2520Torah%2520and%2520the%2520Rapture.pdf
Also, I mentioned David Padfield’s excellent work on the Exodus. It is a free booklet from his classroom Bible study. Here’s the link - https://www.padfield.com/acrobat/history/gods_of_egypt.pdf
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
As we continue in Genesis 24 we ask ourselves the question, is Rebecca also one who the Lord uses to teach us about our walk with the Lord now in the future? In other words is she too part of the Biblical concept we saw in lesson 54 - מַעֲשֵׂה אֲבוֹת סִימָן לַבָּנִים or transliterated, "Ma-ahsay Ahvot Ceenam Leh'Bahneem." It means the events in the life of the fathers are signs or omens for the sons. In lesson 54 we studied the events where Abraham, the father of Isaac, his beloved son, sent his servant to find a bride for Isaac, the child of promise. This reminds us of Jesus who was sent by the Father to find a bride for Himself; He who is the beloved the son of the Father and the promised Messiah. This seems like a application of מַעֲשֵׂה אֲבוֹת סִימָן לַבָּנִים or transliterated, "Ma-ahsay Ahvot Ceenam Leh'Bahneem."
In this lesson I mentioned the concept of “grafted in” and how that phrase is a true equivalent alternative way of translating Gen. 12:3 or …
“And I will bless those who bless you, And the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed.”
This can also be translated as follows.
“And I will bless those who bless you, And the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the earth will be grafted in.”
Here’s the link to lesson 25 to study this in detail. Link - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-kiv4b-f364ec
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In this lesson we study Genesis chapter 24, the longest chapter in Genesis. It seems like something big is about to happen. It is. Abraham sends his servant, his servant who is un-named in chapter 24 (could Eliezer but it can’t be proven), and this servant goes in the name of his master, to find a bride for the father's most beloved son, Isaac, the child of promise.
Hmmm. This sounds like something we know. Is there some connection to Jesus? Do these verses in chapter 24 testify of Jesus who is the Bridegroom, the Promised one, the only begotten, beloved son of the Father. And, we are called His bride. Oh yes! Wait till you see. There is a old Jewish saying, מַעֲשֵׂה אֲבוֹת סִימָן לַבָּנִים or transliterated, "Ma-ahsay Ahvot Ceenam Leh'Bahneem." It means the events in the life of the fathers are signs or omens for the sons. We will see that this is so true for chapter 24 as it also testifies of Jesus and us.
I mentioned in the podcast about Abraham, Jacob, Joshua, and Jesus all show up at one location. It is the area of the ancient city of Shechem. We see the promises of God to Abraham right in front of our eyes at this location. Abraham and Sarah – one couple. From them comes Jacob, and his wives, Rachel and Leah, and his eleven sons. So from one couple to one family. Later Joshua shows up with all Israel at the same place. One nation from the one family who are from the one couple. Finally, the Promised One from the Father, from YHVH, Yahvay, His only begotten beloved son, shows up at the same place. He is the promised “blessing” for all the nations, for Jew and Gentile, coming from the one couple, Abraham and Sarah. This is an amazing study. Here’s the link to lesson 26 from “The Gospel According to Moses – Genesis.”
Link - https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-6wqrb-f5b29a
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link -click here for the teacher's background
In Genesis chapter 4 we come to an interesting character, Lamech. He's not the father of Noah since that Lamech was a descendant of Seth. This Lamech in chapter 4 is the great great great grandson of Cain. He seems to be an unforgiving character just like his ancestor Cain; Lamech talking to his two wives said if someone hurts him he will have his revenge seventy and sevenfold; that means a whole lot. His worldview was clearly not the worldview of the God of the Bible, the God of Abraham, the worldview of Judaism; it was distinctly opposed to our Christian worldview and Jesus' teaching.
Jesus uses this account of Lamech to give His disciples 2000 years ago the counter worldview to Lamech. As a Jewish rabbi He teaches from the Torah to help them and us know the truth of God's word and the truth of how we are to live as His holy people. Jesus uses the Torah, the only Bible they had in Jesus' day, to teach the gospel since the Father had already inspired Moses to write about the gospel in the Torah. But how? Come and join us and let's dig deep.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
So we come to the last video. Yes. Chanukah is a festival in Judaism and has nothing to do with Christmas. Christmas is a Christian festival and has nothing to do with Chanukah. But, we have seen that Jesus is teaching His disciples 2000 years ago about His return. He uses Chanukah in surprising ways in Matthew 24 to teach them THEN that the days before His return will be like the days before the first Chanukah. In those days in the early second century B.C. there was persecution, torture, chaos, and terror. It was a time of tribulation. In the same way the days before Jesus returns will be the time of the Great Tribulation and the saints of the Lord will be persecuted. It will be a time of extreme terror and evil.
In this video we will focus on the middle candle of the Chanukah menorah. It is called the SHAMASH candle or the servant candle. Jesus came serving His Father. He will return as the king. Perhaps God sees a connection between Chanukah and Christmas for those who are disciples of the Jesus. Perhaps God has given us a picture of one hero, Judah the Maccabee, Judah the Hammer, of those days before the first Chanukah, who foreshadows the true מכבי MAKEVEE, the Hammer.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
This is getting too amazing. In this video lesson we not only continue to see that the Lord uses Chanukah to help His disciples 2000 years ago understand His return but also who He is. Who is this King? How is this connected to the time of the Maccabees and Yehoodah HaMakehvee, Judah the Maccabee, the Hammer? On top of that we will see that the Lord uses Chanukah 400 some years before the first Chanukah happened. Yes the Lord inspires one of His "prophets" to write predictions of Chanukah and, more than that, this prophet uses Chanukah inspired by the Lord to predict things of the end of days. So Jesus after Chanukah uses it to teach His disciples but the Lord also does it before Chanukah in and around 600 B.C.
So, if you are interested in the end times, if you are curious about how the Lord inspires a prophet to predict aspects of the end of days, this lesson is a must to view and study. And more than that you will see how this starts in the book of Genesis with Jacob and his 12 sons! This video will blow you away and its all history, Bible history. The Lord is coming again - the Return of the King - and Chanukah is right in the middle of all of it. So cool!
Critical links for you to study what is presented in this vidcast.
Link 1 - Antiochus IV is the villain of Chanukah and a picture of the villain we call the Beast in Revelation 13 - click here for the article
Link 2 - Chanukah, the Maccabees, and the Apocrypha - click here for the article
Link 3 - Dr. Clyde Billington's video on Chanukah in its historical context - click here for a video you don't want to miss
Link 4 - article on Daniel 11 and its historical accuracy - click here for a must resource for you who are into end times stuff
Link 5 - article showing the early date of the Book of Daniel - archaeology does it again - click here for the article
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Chanukah stands on its own as an important Jewish feast. It was an amazing time where God again came to the aid of His chosen people. Time and time again we see how God was with His people - outnumbered or with little power or resources - and the Lord gave them victory in His power and not theirs. We remember the Exodus or Joshua at Jericho or Deborah and Barak or Gideon. Even into 1948 and the War of Independence where Israel, a restored nation after 2000 years, was surrounded by millions of Arabs who wanted to annihilate them from the face of the earth. But, Israel was victorious because of the Lord and it was repeated in the Six Day War in 1967 and the Yom Kippur War of 1973.
The connection between Chanukah and the Return of the King goes on. The Lord is showing us that the days before His return will be somewhat like the days before the first Chanukah but a 1000 times worse - Chanukah is a real set of events that God uses to teach of the ultimate Return of the King. It'll be the days of the Great Tribulation. In the days of Judah the Maccabee the Lord used Judah and his army of devoted religious Jews to defeat the evil forces of Antiochus IV and restore HaBayt Mikdash, the Holy Dwelling Place, or, as we know it, the Temple in Jerusalem. We have seen how God connects these events to Himself and His return. Is there a connection to the actual 1st Chanukah, the cleansing of the Temple and the reinitiation of the sacrifices? Let's go see.
Links to mentioned in this video ...
Video on the miracles God did in recent battles Israel was in - click here for an amazing video of real events/miracles
Article on 17 major battles and their miraculous nature - click here for the article
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
The Hebrew name of Judas the Maccabee is Yehoodah Hasmonaim but his nickname was Yehooda HaMaKehvee or Judas (or equivalently Judah) the Hammer. He was the military hero of Chanukah. He was the one who captured Jerusalem in 164 B.C. He and all the religious people of Jerusalem restored the House of Adonai, HaBate Mikdash, the Holy Dwelling Place, or the Temple. They dedicated it (Chanukah means dedication) and it was decided that the Jewish people would do a feast every year remembering what great things God had done.
It was an amazing crazy victory over odds that were more than overwhelming. Judah "hammered" the forces of the cruel pagan Seleucid Greek king Antiochus IV Epiphanes. But, does God make any connections with this victory with Yeshua His Son? Are their similarities between Yehoodah and his leadership of the armies of the Jews and Yeshua, King of Kings and Lord of Lords? Let's explore this in this video.
Links mentioned in this video ...
Dr. Clyde Billington's video on Chanukah in its historical context - click here for a video you don't want to miss
Article on Daniel 11 and its historical accuracy - click here for a must resource for you who are into end times stuff
Article showing the early date of the Book of Daniel - archaeology does it again - click here for the article
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
OK. It is crystal clear by now that Jesus is teaching about His return using the sequence of events in 1 Maccabees 2. It is too amazing. The exact order in 1 Maccabees 2 is the exact order in Matthew 24:9-21. We don't get it since we are 1) not Jewish and 2) we are not taught the Bible in its historical context. But, the Lord is doing something new. He is doing something to bring us who are behind the curtain, behind the veil, to see more clearly. This so to take His "bride" into a more complete and enhanced understanding of His word and get "her" (that is us) ready for the coming of the Bridegroom.
In this video we will meet more amazing Jewish people from those dark and terrible days under the cruelty of Antiochus Epiphanes IV. We will meet my hero, Eleazar, and Bible teacher. We will also learn about Jewish families and how they would not buckle under the pressure to turn away from the Lord and turn to the practices of the pagan Greeks and their worldview of Hellenism, a worldview straight from hell. And from this we will again see how they faced persecution and torture and death. It was a time of a great tribulation on all Israel.
But, it is interesting that Jesus is teaching that before His return that the terrible days of the Maccabees is nothing compared to the terror of the tribulation. After all the things He said that relate to those days Jesus ends those five statement with ...
"For then there will be a great tribulation, such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will. Unless those days had been cut short, no life would have been saved; but for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short." Matt. 24:21-22
I had an awesome lady Bible teacher who taught on the book of the Revelation. When it got to the rapture she taught we should hope for the best but prepare for the worst. She asked us to ask some questions that no one asks? What if those who are post-trib - in other words that the rapture will happen after the tribulation - are right? What if we as Christians must go through what the Jews went through but 1000 times worse? Those who hold to post-trib are simply speculating as to their view of the end times. Those who are mid-trib and pre-trib are simply stating a man made view of the endtimes. There are endless arguments and no conclusion except one's own prejudice. So, all those Christians - pre and mid and post and who are not rapture people - will be saved and we will finally all see who was right and who was wrong. So, I remember that great lesson I learned from that women Bible teacher who I held in high high esteem when she said, "Hope for the best but plan for the worst."
One famous Christian pastor says Christians in the USA are not ready. Here's his article. We are not ready. We are too soft and too integrated into the culture of "me first" that is all around us. We don't hold a candle to the heroes of the faith in this lesson and in the previous lesson. It is time to wake up and get ready.
Link to Pastor Brunson's article - click here to access the article
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Candle 4 is lit. What does it represent as far as Jesus connecting Chanukah with His return - the Return of the King? So far Jesus has said He is God on Chanukah. The evil king Antiochus said he was god and he's the villain of this Jewish feast. He's not god - no way. Only Yeshua is Lord of lords and King of kings and the only God. But, Jesus said this on Chanukah and that ain't no coincidence! See John 10:22 and following.
Then we remember Jesus teaching in a special sequence. In those days before He returns He talked about the abomination of desolation. He talked about fleeing to the mountains and not taking anything with us. All these are in the books of the Maccabees in the same order! Those books were written in the mid to early 1st century B.C. The disciples of Jesus would have had access to those books. Thus, it seems highly probable that they saw what Jesus was doing; He was creating an awesome connection between Chanukah and His return. So, as we put the Bible back into its historical context we too hear as they did THEN, and see the way those disciples did THEN, and understand the way they did THEN, so the Ruach HaKodesh רוח הקודש - our comforter and teacher - can help us enhance and expand our understanding NOW.
In this vidcast you will meet some amazing women. We will also meet 7 brothers - men and boys who are also so amazing. Actually most of the women are teenagers. Girls married at 12 or 13 or 14 in and around 170 B.C. These young Jewish teenage moms and those 7 Jewish brothers exhibited courage and bravery that no Christian girl or young man in the USA would ever face or has ever faced. We will meet true heroines and heroes of the faith in a time of horror and death and fear and chaos. And Jesus tells us that perhaps the terror they faced is what may face moms with kids again and all of us before He returns.
Here's the links to where you can purchase that amazing historical novel entitled, "Maccabee," by Dave Carson. It's based upon the event of 1 and 2 Maccabees and it is an adventure story supreme. Get you'll love it.
Amazon - click here to access
Thrift Books - click here to access
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
And so the connection between Jesus' return and Chanukah continues. We must again return to ancient Israel in and about 170 B.C. What was happening to the devout and faithful Jews under the cruel, vicious, and pagan Greek king Antiochus IV? And how does Jesus relate this to the days before His return - the days of tribulation where many have the mark of the evil one, the anti-Christ the one who is anti-Bible and anti-God? Come. Return to those days with us. Let us seek His truth as Yeshua teaches them THEN so we can more fully understand NOW.
Here's a link that reviews the revolt of the Maccabees and the 1st celebration of the feast of Dedication or Chanukah חֲנֻכָּה - click here for a great synopsis of the revolt and the first Chanukah
Here are links to very readable versions of the 1st and 2nd book of the Maccabees.
1 Maccabees - click here for the first book
2 Maccabees - click here for the 2nd book
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Christians and Jews believe in ONE God, the God of Abraham and the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob (Israel). Just like Paul said in 1 Cor. 8:6, Eph. 4:6, and 1 Tim 2:5. And as we learn about the revolt of the Maccabees we see what God did for His chosen ones, Israel. One old Levite priest and his five sons, Judas, Simon, John, Eleazer, and Jonathan and a bunch of Jews from the village of Modi'in (pronounced Moe Deen) flee to the hills and begin a revolution against the powerful Greek Seleucid kingdom of Antiochus IV Epiphanes. It is as if Puerto Rico invaded the USA landing their forces at Miami Beach and conquering us in four years. Impossible. But, God has already told us time and time again,
"Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh; is anything too difficult for Me?" (Jer 32:27)
Lord said to Sarah in Abraham's tent, "Is anything too difficult for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, at this time next year, and Sarah will have a son." (Gen 18:14)
The Egyptians had enslaved all the Hebrews and were murdering the baby boys of the Hebrews; God delivered these powerless slaves from the most powerful nation on earth at the time. And God does it again in the time of the Maccabees.
We as Christians should not be surprised. Chanukah is not about a rabbinic story of some so called miracle of the oil jar. No way! It is a celebration of God, the only God, who is the all powerful one and is King of kings and God of gods and the Lord of lords.
But now. This awesome celebration remembering what God did for Israel, is used by God Himself to teach His disciples 2000 years ago of His return. Once again we will see another connection Jesus makes between the events of the Maccabean revolt, the remembrance of Chanukah, and His return.
Here's a link that reviews the revolt of the Maccabees and the 1st celebration of the feast of Dedication or Chanukah חֲנֻכָּה - click here for a great synopsis of the revolt and the first Chanukah
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link -click here for the teacher's background
In this video we return again to the Mt. of Olives. Jesus is answering His disciples. They asked Him what would be the sign of His return and the end of the age. Jesus answers and seems to use events of the revolt of the Maccabees as a "picture" to teach them about the times of His return. We as Christians have no connection to Chanukah except it is in December like Christmas. But it has nothing to do with Christmas and we now learn the "miracle of the oil" that supposedly explains the meaning of Chanukah, never happened. It was only a story a rabbi made up in the 3rd century A.D. to try and come up with why Chanukah lasts for 8 days. If you haven't listened to the 1st video, I strongly urge you to watch the video, "Chanukah: Return of the King - Introduction."
So, let us jump in again. Let us return to the Mt. of Olives. Let's study the events of the revolt or the Maccabees and see how Jesus continues to use those days and times to teach His disciples and, therefore, teach us as we reconnect to those days 2000 years ago and hear Jesus they way they did THEN so we can enhance our understanding of the return of the King NOW.
Here are some links that may enhance your study ...
1 Maccabees - click here for the first book
2 Maccabees - click here for the 2nd book
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
It is the "season of light." For religious Jewish people it is the feast of Chanukah (Hanukkah is the modern way of spelling the feast) and is a celebration of light - the lights of the Chanukah Menorah. For Christians who celebrate Christmas it is the time to remember the coming of the "light of world" in Jesus. It is interesting that Chanukah and Christmas are connected in that they represent a celebration of the light. But, that is about the only connection they have. Simply put, Chanukah and Christmas have absolutely NOTHING to do with each other. There as different as ice cream and apple pie. I am always amazed at those Christians who say we need to celebrate Chanukah just like the Jewish people. That's like asking Muslims in India to celebrate July 4th Independence Day of the USA. Why would they? It makes no sense.
Jesus however, does something to Chanukah that is very surprising. He uses it and the history of the start of Chanukah as a way to teach His disciples 2000 years ago. He uses it to teach of His return as King and Lord. He uses the events of the revolt of the Maccabees, the July 4th of the Jewish people around 164 B.C., to help His disciples learn about what it might be like before He returns. This is the focus on this vidcast series. I do hope the video series is a blessing and it adds to your celebration of this season of the LIGHT. For myself, I actually add the celebration of Chanukah to this time. Why? Not for the awesome things God did for His people then but for how Jesus teaches me today about the Return of the King.
In the video I talked about some links I would provide. See them below. These are scholarly Jewish resources that teach us that there never was the miracle of the oil at Chanukah. It isn't me teaching this but non-Christian Jewish scholars. So, if there is no miracle of the oil then what is Chanukah all about? You will learn it as part of this vidcast series.
Link 1 to "My Jewish Learning" - click here for the article
Link 2 to Torah.com - click here for the article
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
The Light of Menorah special Chanukah video series coming 11/27. All instructions to access the series will be announced here on the website Saturday 11/27 at 6 pm.
The series is entitled, "Chanukah: Return of the King." It is possible that the Lord uses this man-made festival (not commanded by God in the Bible) celebrated in December to teach about His return. Interesting. Christmas is a man-made festival not commanded by God in His word that happens in December where we celebrate the first coming of Messiah. So, perhaps, there is a reason for real disciples of Rabbi Jesus to begin to do Chanukah. Here's the schedule of the videos and when they will be available ...
VIDEO 1 - after 6 PM NOV 27 - first video that "sets the stage" for the entire series. VIDEO 2 - after 6 PM - NOV 28TH CANDLE 1 VIDEO 3 - after 6 PM - NOV 29TH CANDLE 2 VIDEO 4 - after 6 PM - NOV 30TH CANDLE 3 VIDEO 5 - after 6 PM - DEC 1ST CANDLE 4 VIDEO 6 - after 6 PM - DEC 2ND CANDLE 5 VIDEO 7 - after 6 PM - DEC 3RD CANDLE 6 VIDEO 8 - after 6 PM - DEC 4TH CANDLE 7 VIDEO 9 - after 6 PM - DEC 5TH CANDLE 8 VIDEO 10 - after 6 PM - DEC 6TH - the explosive ending
I often wondered sometimes, how events in the Hebrew Scriptures related to me today in the 21st century. I often wondered what Jesus meant in John 5:39 when He taught us that all scripture testified of Him. All they had the when He taught that was the Hebrew Scriptures. They did not have the New Testament. But, over and over again I see the Lord is spot on! His TORAH speaks to us today. Just wait to see how the death of Sarah and Abraham's actions teach us what it means to be a true disciple of Adonai Yeshua.
Sarah dies and Abraham ACTS. He just doesn't sit there and wait to see if the Lord wants him to buy the cave at Machpelah to bury his beloved wife. On top of that Abraham acts again in chapter 24. He doesn't just sit there and wait for God to bring Isaac a wife. Abraham acts.
We are his sons and daughters as Paul teaches in Gal. 3:7 and if Consider those who hold to the belief in the rapture. Some Christians are waiting for the Rapture. Waiting? NO!! Don't sit there, the Lord told you to GO. Don’t believe me then listen to His very words in Matt 28:19, Mark 16:16, and John 15:16.
(Mat 28:19) "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit …”
(Mar 16:15-16) And He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. He who has believed and has been baptized shall be saved; but he who has disbelieved shall be condemned.”
(Joh 15:16) "You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you.”
In all three verses there is the word “GO.” In our own day don’t sit and study the end times and try and figure out the signs of the times and think you are doing well as a disciple of Adonai Yeshua. He said “GO” and bear fruit and that our fruit is ever ripe and ever fresh for the purposes God has in His Kingdom. We are to “GO” and then …
(Joh 15:8) "My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.”
So it is a lot more than studying the Bible. Are you bearing fruit? Are you like our father Abraham as Paul teaches in Gal. 3:7? Are you just sitting there waiting? Act! Get up and DO! Live to hear Him say the first time you and Yeshua are face to face, "Well done!"
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
What is a non-sequitur? From Merriam-Webbster we see that …
Definition of non sequitur
1: an inference (see INFERENCE sense 1) that does not follow from the premises (see PREMISE entry 1 sense 1)
specifically : a fallacy resulting from a simple conversion of a universal affirmative (see AFFIRMATIVE entry 1 sense 3) proposition or from the transposition of a condition and its consequent (see CONSEQUENT entry 1 sense 1)
2: a statement (such as a response) that does not follow logically from or is not clearly related to anything previously said
Here’s an example. If someone asks what it's like outside and you reply, "It's 2:00," you've just used a non sequitur; you made a statement that does not follow what was being discussed. Shown below are five more simple examples.
- My refrigerator is acting up. I’d better finish that book by Friday.
- I read about a pitbull attack. Our neighbor owns a pitbull. My life is in danger.
- It's time to take my car in for service. I wonder if my stylist is available this Saturday.
- I had a crazy music teacher in elementary school. All music teachers are crazy.
- When it's sunny, I see my neighbor walking his dog. He must only walk the dog when the sun is out.
It is clear that one statement does not follow logically into the second. It also seems that in Genesis 22:20-24 we have a non-sequitur. Why after studying the awesome events of God asking Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac, the child of promise, do we get this?
Now it came about after these things, that it was told Abraham, saying, "Behold, Milcah also has borne children to your brother Nahor: Uz his firstborn and Buz his brother and Kemuel the father of Aram and Chesed and Hazo and Pildash and Jidlaph and Bethuel." Bethuel became the father of Rebekah; these eight Milcah bore to Nahor, Abraham's brother. His concubine, whose name was Reumah, also bore Tebah and Gaham and Tahash and Maacah. (Gen 22:20-24)
This seems so out of place. It seems like it doesn’t belong, it doesn’t follow. Why does the Lord inspire Moses to put this in in this place? It’s like a non-sequitur. Or is it? Remember, this is God’s word. Something is up. In this lesson will attempt to understand why these verses are put in here. The suggestions are powerful.
We will then turn our attention to Genesis 23. One thing we will focus on is the geography of Israel. Look at the map below. (Map is royalty free at Wikimedia)
Abraham was about 30 miles away from Sarah when Sarah died. Huh? This means they were not living together as married couple. This escapes most of us since we are so cutoff from understanding the geography of the Middle East as it relates to the Bible events. The geography tells us something. We missed it. There’s more to the events that preceded Sarah’s death. There’s more we missed that adds to a deeper understanding of the word of the Lord.
Lastly, we will focus on Abraham and his reliance, his dependency, his trust, or, one might say, his faith in God and that what God promised and what God said is true. Abraham's worldview is a total trust and reliance on the Lord. What's interesting is Abraham doesn't just sit there and not do anything. Abraham knows the promises of God and HE DOESN'T JUST SIT THERE, HE ACTS!! He acts in such a way that his actions show that he relies on the promises of the Lord and they are true even though not seen. This is the type of "father" we have as Paul teaches about us in Gal. 3:7. We are part of the family. He's our daddy. We should live and be believers who have the same faith, the same worldview of Abraham. So, Christian, don't just sit there, do something!!
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
We finally come to the amazing conclusion of our study on Genesis 22:1-9, the עֲקֵידַת יִצְחַק Ahkaydah Yeetzack, the Binding of Isaac. Starting in lesson 49 we talked about that these verses are a CHIASM. You serious about learning the Bible? Really? Then you’d better review all three of these lessons, 49, 50 and this one, lesson 51. If you are serious about Bible study and knowing God’s word you need to understand that God inspires His writers of His books to use chiastic structures to focus on the main point of something the Lord wants to teach us. Here are the links for lesson 49 and 50 and a link to the video entitled, “The Mirror of Passover,” which together will help you understand what a chiasm is.
Link – lesson 49 – https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-5v9ti-10f429a
Link – lesson 50 – https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-fw95z-1104daf
Link – video, “The Mirror of Passover” - https://youtu.be/ipaeu7AQZ8Y
For עֲקֵידַת יִצְחַק Ahkaydah Yeetzack, the Binding of Isaac, it is critical since understanding the chiasm of Gen. 22:1-19 takes us to the Cross of Christ. This is too amazing.
There are some amazing connections that come out of this chiasm. We will see three first born sons. We will see three lambs/rams. We will see three covenants and three mountains. We will see three names of the first born sons and all of the names begin with the same Hebrew letter … look …
יִצְחַק – Yeetzack (Isaac) – begins with יִ
יִשְׂרָאֵל – Yisrael (Israel) - begins with יִ
יְשׁוּעָה. – Yeshua (Jesus) – begins with יִ
Are you ready for this? Are you ready to learn what you ain’t gonna learn in Sunday school?
טוֹב, תִּהְיוּ מוּכָנִים, בּוֹאוּ נַתְחִיל - tov, tiheyu mukhaneem, bou natekhil – OK!! Get ready!! Let’s go!!
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
As we learned in lesson 49 chapter 22 of Genesis, the story of the binding of Isaac, is a chiastic structure. Here’s an example that is from the amazing website on chiasms in the Bible, chiasmus.dns-systems.net. It is a chiasm of Noah and the chiasm is showing us the critical verse in this chiasm. See below.
As one starts reading from Gen. 6:10 to 9:19 the verses are “reflections” of each other. Verse 6:10a mentions Noah as does 9:19. The next verse 6:10b mentions Shem, Ham, and Japheth as does 9:18b. The we come across verses 6:14-16 and the focus is the Ark and this is “mirrored” in 9:18a. This can be seen the in triangular structure as the chiasm finally ends at Gen. 8:1 that God remembered Noah. This is the inspired focus of this whole event, Noah. God is going to destroy all mankind, all animals, everything. This is a big big deal. It is easy to lose track of Noah and his relationship to the Lord and the Lord’s relationship to Noah in the amazing catastrophe the Lord is bringing down upon the earth. But, God seemingly wants us not to get off track. In all this God is not forgetting Noah. This is the focus – the focus is on God, what He is like, and in the midst of this awesome event, the flood, the focus is on a personal God who has a deep intimate relationship with Noah. And we therefore can learn about the Lord in a deeper way. It’s as if God is telling us today that no matter what great things or awesome events are happening around us, if we are His people, His focus is on us. He will not forget us in the midst of events that seem to spiral out or control.
I mentioned Rabbi David Foreman in the podcast and his Torah teaching website, www.AlephBeta.org. I am linking you to the video I mentioned in this podcast that describes the chiasm of Gen. 22. Here’s the link - https://www.alephbeta.org/playlist/story-of-abraham-binding-isaac
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
I have so many awesome credible and scholarly resources for my study and research in the Torah, the first five books of the Bible. Again, these books are critical for Christians to study since Jesus said in John 5:39 that ALL scripture testifies of Him. He said it sometime between 24-30 A.D. and all they had then was the Hebrew Scriptures; you know it as the Old Testament. Then the five books that were the primary books of the Bible was the Torah, the Books of Moses, Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. As we study these books we see Jesus. Without the Hebrew Scriptures, the New Testament is incomplete. The Bible is one book from Genesis 1 to Revelation 22 and it all testifies of Jesus and the writers of the books of the New Testament relied heavily on Torah.
One resource I count on is the Torah commentary by Dr. John Currid. Yes, he is a Christian theologian but, and this is why I use it, John Currid is a proven archaeologist, Egyptologist, and historian. His commentary actually puts the words of Moses in their historical context. Thus, we can learn the who and the what and the how and the when to understand the why as one of my first teachers, Ray Vander Laan, taught me.
Doctor Currid shows something in his commentary on Genesis 22. He shows that Gen. 22:1-19 is a chiasm. Once you understand what a chiasm is then one can return to Gen. 22 and see the main point God is making. The chiasm is shown below. The verses are color coded to show how the verse colored in black are a reflection of the other verses in black. And the verses in red reflect the other verses in red in that the content is connected. The verse in blue are the center of the chiasm, like the point of a pyramid with the first half sloping up to the point and the 2nd half sloping down from the point.
(Gen 22:1) Now it came about after these things, that God tested Abraham, and said to him, "Abraham!" And he said, "Here I am."
(Gen 22:2) He said, "Take now your son, your only son, whom you love, Isaac, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I will tell you."
(Gen 22:3) So Abraham rose early in the morning and saddled his donkey, and took two of his young men with him and Isaac his son; and he split wood for the burnt offering, and arose and went to the place of which God had told him.
(Gen 22:4) On the third day Abraham raised his eyes and saw the place from a distance.
(Gen 22:5) Abraham said to his young men, "Stay here with the donkey, and I and the lad will go over there; and we will worship and return to you."
(Gen 22:6) Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering and laid it on Isaac his son, and he took in his hand the fire and the knife. So the two of them walked on together.
(Gen 22:7) Isaac spoke to Abraham his father and said, "My father!" And he said, "Here I am, my son." And he said, "Behold, the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?"
(Gen 22:8) Abraham said, "God will provide for Himself the lamb for the burnt offering, my son." So the two of them walked on together.
(Gen 22:9) Then they came to the place of which God had told him; and Abraham built the altar there and arranged the wood, and bound his son Isaac and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood.
(Gen 22:10) Abraham stretched out his hand and took the knife to slay his son.
(Gen 22:11) But the angel of the LORD called to him from heaven and said, "Abraham, Abraham!" And he said, "Here I am."
(Gen 22:12) He said, "Do not stretch out your hand against the lad, and do nothing to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me."
(Gen 22:13) Then Abraham raised his eyes and looked, and behold, behind him a ram caught in the thicket by his horns; and Abraham went and took the ram and offered him up for a burnt offering in the place of his son.
(Gen 22:14) Abraham called the name of that place The LORD Will Provide, as it is said to this day, "In the mount of the LORD it will be provided."
(Gen 22:15) Then the angel of the LORD called to Abraham a second time from heaven,
(Gen 22:16) and said, "By Myself I have sworn, declares the LORD, because you have done this thing and have not withheld your son, your only son,
(Gen 22:17) indeed I will greatly bless you, and I will greatly multiply your seed as the stars of the heavens and as the sand which is on the seashore; and your seed shall possess the gate of their enemies.
(Gen 22:18) "In your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice."
(Gen 22:19) So Abraham returned to his young men, and they arose and went together to Beersheba; and Abraham lived at Beersheba.
The entire structure is like a two lines. The beginning line slopes down from left to right and ends at a specific point. Once you reach the center, in this case the verses in blue, the rest of the verses are another line sloping down from right to left from the original starting point. Thus, the verses in black are connected by being reflections of each other. See below. This is a chiastic structure of the entire Bible. Pretty cool!! From Patheos.com 2017.
The central focus of the chiasm of Gen. 22 is the “silence” that is inherent in the verse colored in blue. Abraham can’t “see” God’s purpose and Isaac can’t see the sacrifice. God is silent. The father and the son go on together. In the Hebrew the wording suggests they go one with one mindset, one purpose. Abraham to obey God. Isaac to obey is father. They go on seemingly in silence to the amazing things God will show them on the mountain.
What I just wrote is not a sufficient explanation of this chiasm. I leave the listener to study with me in the podcast. Once you have the idea come back and add to what you think the central point God is making.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Abraham and Isaac go up the mountain and Abraham will be tested by Adonai, the Lord, Yahvay. Abraham doesn’t even know he is being tested. The Lord wants to know what this Abraham is all about. Is his faith real? Or, is his faith just a bunch of words? Is Abraham truly committed to living for the Lord as his top focus, priority? God will test this and see if Abraham is willing to “slaughter” his own son, his Isaac, the first born of he and Sarah, the son who God is the is “promised one” to establish the covenant. Will Abraham give it all up to show his unwavering allegiance to the Lord?
This is a lesson for us as well. Paul teaches that if we are true believers we are sons and daughters of Abraham. Consider …
Therefore, be sure that it is those who are of faith who are sons of Abraham. The Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, "ALL THE NATIONS WILL BE BLESSED IN YOU." (Gal 3:7-8)
It seems God is telling us we are part of the family. It might be assumed therefore that we have the family characteristics – we are to be like our “father” Abraham. We have the same commitment, allegiance, and faith as he did. Do we? Would we pass the test that Abraham passed? Would we show our allegiance as he did to the Lord by being willing to kill our son or daughter or other special loved one cause God said it?
Jesus the Last Supper lifts up a cup of wine. It is the cup of the New Covenant. For the 11 disciples still at the Passover Meal that night, they may have seen this as a “picture.” Jesus was “proposing marriage” to the 11 and to us. Of course, Godly marriage is a covenant. Jesus is saying to drink the cup. It’s like a sign that we are entering more than a relationship but a relationship to Jesus that we are totally committed to Him and He to us. Look upon the New Covenant like a beautiful Godly marriage between a Godly man and a Godly woman - Jesus the Bridegroom and u the Bride. The New Covenant shows our mutual unwavering allegiance to Yeshua and He to us like a husband and wife. Check out the article on that goes into this in detail at the link below. Link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/q5ybtnm9r8iuymc/Last%20Supper%20_%20The%20Amazing%20Proposal%20better.pdf?dl=0
Once again in this lesson we again see how the scriptures in Torah testify of Jesus. These is an amazing connections between Isaac and Jesus. Below I am repeating a wonderful survey done by a pastor on these connections.
Consider …
PARALLELS BETWEEN ISAAC AND JESUS
Contributed by Dr. Larry Petton on Jan 19, 2014
www.SermonCentral.com
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Both fulfilled PROMISES: Isaac was the long-promised son to Abraham (Genesis 12:3) and Jesus was the long-promised Messiah and Son of God (Genesis 3:15; 13:3, John 1:1-12)
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Both were the ONLY SON of their father: God said that Isaac was “Your son, your only son, whom you live…” to Abraham(Genesis 22: 2) and God also said “This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased!” (Matthew 3:16, 17).
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Both had a MIRACULOUS BIRTH: Isaac was born to parents who were very old - Genesis 18:13 and Jesus was born of a virgin, Mary, and conceived by the Holy Spirit - Luke 1:34-35.
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Both had a conception and birth that was PRE-ANNOUNCED - Genesis 18:10 & Luke 1:30–31.
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Both were NAMED before their birth - Genesis 17:19 & Matthew 1:21.
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Both were MOCKED and persecuted by their own kindred - Genesis 21:9 & Mark 15:29–32.
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Both were UNDESERVING of their sacrificial death - Genesis 22:2, Luke 23:41.
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Both were sacrificed on a mountain chosen by God - Genesis 22:3 & Matthew 27:33.
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Both were LOVED by their fathers (Genesis 22:2; Matthew 3:16, 17).
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Both had a THREE-DAY experience: Isaac had a 3-day hike to Moriah and Jesus had 3 days from the cross to the grave to the resurrection.
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Both WERE accompanied by TWO MEN: Isaac by two servants (Genesis 22:3) and Jesus by two thieves (Matthew 27:38)
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Both carried their own WOOD: Isaac carried the wood for his own sacrifice (Genesis 22:6) and Jesus carried the crossbeam of his cross (John 19:17).
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Both SUBMITTED to their father: Isaac willingly laid down his life, submitting to his father (Genesis 22:9) and Jesus submitted to his Father’s will and laid down his life for our sin (Luke 22:42, Romans 5:8).
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Both asked a QUESTION of their father: Isaac asked Abraham “Here is the fire and the wood, Father, but where is the lamb? (Gen. 22:7) and Jesus cried “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” from the cross (Matthew 27:46).
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Both were BROUGHT BACK from the dead: Isaac was “brought back” figuratively (Genesis 22:12) by the faith of Abraham and Jesus rose from the dead 3 days after he was crucified (Matthew 28:6-7).
Finally ... get ready for lesson 49. We will study Genesis 22 as a CHIASM. Huh? What's that? Watch this video before you listen to lesson 49. Here's the link - https://youtu.be/ipaeu7AQZ8Y
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - click here
In lesson 47 we studied Orthodox Jewish Midrash or Orthodox Jewish Bible commentary. In lesson 47 it was shown that this is a common tool of the orthodox rabbis in orthodox Judaism. Many times their views and comments are found to be unbiblical, contradicting real archaeology and history, and sometimes even contradicting the actual Hebrew words or grammar. These orthodox rabbis even word their views and opinions in such a way that "it is their way or the highway."
Many Christians today in the 21st century have bought into their views and ideas unbeknownst to themselves. Some of these midrashim, these rabbinic statements as to the meaning of the Bible or statements as to questions or issues the Bible does not answer, have entered into Christian beliefs and Bible understanding and most Christians have no idea they are only opinions or views of men, rabbis yes, buy mere men. These views and ideas have become so entrenched in the beliefs of both Jews and non-Jews that the tradition has become solid granite - like the midrash that Chanukah is all about the miracle of the oil!
One of these views is that there is a mountain called Moriah as found in Gen. 22:1-2 and it this mountain that is the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. In lesson 47 it is shown that this is orthodox rabbinic midrash. Jewish sources are clear that it was the rabbis who determined this with no basis in fact. Their conclusions even contradict the actual Hebrew. The Bible in Hebrew is precise - Moriah is not a proper name and it not the name of a mountain; it is an ancient Hebrew noun that has dropped out of use by the time of the days of Jesus.
In this podcast we will continue our study and this time we will accept what the Bible says exactly in Hebrew and not orthodox rabbinic opinions and views. We will restudy Genesis 22 but this time we will use the word MORIAH as a place where something is seen. This is a possible meaning as as presented in the "Jewish Publication Society Torah Commentary - Genesis." See below as to the high praise for the JPS series. It is one the best Jewish commentaries available today.
"Written by four outstanding Torah scholars, the JPS Torah Commentary represents a fusion of the best of the old and new. Utilizing the latest research to enhance our understanding of the biblical text, it takes its place as one of the most authoritative yet accessible Bible commentaries of our day. The JPS Torah Commentary series guides readers through the words and ideas of the Torah. Each volume is the work of a scholar who stands at the pinnacle of his field. Every page contains the complete traditional Hebrew text, with cantillation notes, the JPS translation of the Holy Scriptures, aliyot breaks, Masoretic notes, and commentary by a distinguished Hebrew Bible scholar, integrating classical and modern sources. Each volume also contains supplementary essays that elaborate upon key words and themes, a glossary of commentators and sources, extensive bibliographic notes, and maps.
The award-winning JPS Torah Commentaries and JPS Bible Commentaries are read and studied by tens of thousands of people, Jewish and Christian alike. They are, quite simply, the gold standard. Each is written by a top scholar in the field, in clear language that’s accessible to everyone. We are exceptionally proud of these well respected commentaries."
So, to continue on about the noun "moriah." It is not a proper name but a noun describing a location where something appears. If we do and we consider three mountain, three separate mountains where something amazing was seen and experienced, we find that the rabbinic midrash is not as profound or penetrating.
So come. Join us. If we remove tradition, if we remove views and opinions, and if we study what the Bible actually says we come to a deeper and more intense understanding of THE VERY WORDS OF GOD.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Many times in this series or in the series on Exodus I bring up rabbinic commentary commonly called in Judaism midrashim (מִדְרָשִׁים). In many cases these comments by the rabbis are unbiblical and are non-historical and sometimes change the meaning of the text of God’s word. A case in point is in lesson 46 of this series it was shown that there is no mountain called Moriah and the Temple Mount was not the place of the binding of Isaac. It is impossible historically, geographically, and etymologically (ie. Moriah in the actual Hebrew of the Bible is not even proper name if one understands the grammar rules of Hebrew). And yet, so many Jews and Gentiles still hold to the notion that there is a mountain called Moriah and it is the Temple Mount. This is how the rabbis change the meaning of the text of God’s word by their opinions and conjectures. This is why adding "fictional aspects" to the text of His word misleads and distorts the truth God is trying to convey.
Another example is the miracle of the oil on Chanukah. It never happened. Once again we are dealing with rabbinic midrash that appears hundreds of years after the events stated by a rabbi with no proof or backup. This “fiction” is then carried down to us and so many hold to the fictional addition to the God’s word.
This is why I am opposed to the new popular video series, “The Chosen.” It is taking the true Bible text and adding fictional stories that change the meaning of the His word. A scholarly writer of historical fiction will never warp the historical event and the historical facts of the event as they add to a fictional account related to the event. This is not the case for the creators of "The Chosen."
So, what is a Midrash? What is their purpose? How do we deal with Midrash? How do we begin to stop believing that everything some Jewish rabbi says is not “the gospel?” This lesson will explore these topics. It is important for you, if you continue in this series or the series on Exodus to understand.
I promised I give you some links to articles and other sources to expand your understanding on certain things brought up in this lesson. Here they are.
Link about the midrash of the tzeetzee-ot or tassels – click here
Link to an article on the mysterious land of Moriah - click here
Link about the midrash, the “fake news” about the miracle of the oil at Chanukah – click here
Link to my article on Jesus’ marriage proposal during His “last supper” at the mountain of God or Jerusalem – click here
Link to the article on the Jewish ritual of “washing the dead” or as in 1 Cor 15:29, “baptizing the dead - click here
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Where is Mt. Moriah? In this lesson we find that the actual Hebrew in the Bible implies that Moriah is not a proper name. The word itself is ancient and disappeared from use as we get closer to the Second Temple period, 600 B.C. till 70 A.D. In the “JPS Torah Commentary – Genesis” the etymology of the word is unknown but trusted scholar like Nahum Sarna suggest that Moriah (מֹרִיָּה) might come from the Hebrew word “to see” or râ'âh (רָאָה). So, this could then result in the two places in the Hebrew Scriptures where Moriah occurs to have an equivalent meaning. See below.
Gen. 22:2 (original) - He said, "Take now your son, your only son, whom you love, Isaac, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I will tell you."
Gen. 22:2 (alternative) - He said, "Take now your son, your only son, whom you love, Isaac, and go to the land where it‘ll be seen, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I will tell you."
Then we go to 2 Chron. 3:1 where our translations sayu based upon rabbinic tradition that Solomon built the 1st Temple on the mountain called Moriah. Let’s loo at both the original and the alternative.
2 Chron. 3:1 (original) - Then Solomon began to build the house of the LORD in Jerusalem on Mount Moriah (the Hebrew actually says “on the mountain in the Moriah”), where the LORD had appeared to his father David, at the place that David had prepared on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite.
2 Chron. 3:1 (alterntative) - Then Solomon began to build the house of the LORD in Jerusalem in the place where it’ll b seen on the mountain where the LORD had appeared to his father David, at the place that David had prepared on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite.
The Hebrew is precise. Moriah is not a proper name. Thus, there is no mountain that is named Moriah. On top of that it says it took Abraham 3 days to walk from the area of Beer Sheva to Jerusalem. That is over 50 miles on good trails and roads. It has been shown this is a 5 day trip at least. In other words, the mountain where we study the Binding of Isaac is likely not the Temple Mount.
In his JPS Genesis excursus 16, Nahum Sarna surveys several suggestions for the etymology of the word “moriah”:
- The Lofty Country – Septuagint
- The Land of Worship – Aramic Targum / Ramban
- The Land of Vision – Vulgate /Samaritan Targum
- The Land of the Amorites – Peshitta / Rashbam
- The Land that I will show you – Genesis Rabba 55:9
- The Place from which fear of the Lord emanates – R. Jannai in Tanchuma
- The Place from which teaching issued to the world – b. Taanit 16a / Rab. 55.9
These multiple creative suggestions highlight the difficulty of assuming that the land of Moriah was meant to reference a particular place. The simple fact of the matter is, we cannot be sure of the actual place meant when the Torah describes Abraham taking his son into the Land of Moriah. For a detailed study on this refer to the “JPS Torah Commentary – Genesis,” by Nahum Sarna.
I was thinking about this and I offer this idea – God seems to pick special unique places where His covenant and His agenda is seen. This relates to the possible meaning of Moriah (מֹרִיָּה) – a place of vision, a place where it’ll be seen, a place where God’s covenant is seen.
So, Abraham passes the test on a mountain Yahvay (the Lord) took him to. In Gen. 22:16+ God tells Abraham that all the promises he made to Abraham in Gen. 12:1-3 He will honor and they will happen since Abraham passed the test; Abraham showed is allegiance to God by being willing to sacrifice his own son that he loved. Matter at this place we read that Abraham says …
Abraham called the name of that place “The LORD Will Provide,” as it is said to this day, "In the mount of the LORD it will be provided." (Gen 22:14) Problem! It does not say that. The word used is “to see” or râ'âh (רָאָה). God took Abraham to a land where it’ll be seen, perhaps the root of Moriah. And, indeed, it was seen. God provided the ram as a substitute for Isaac and this is clearly a special mountain, a special place, for a special event, and a special man, Abraham.
There is another mountain someplace in the Sinai where one might say the Lord led His people to a mountain in the moriah, in the place where it’ll be seen, in the place of vision. There God established His NEW covenant with all Israel, at His mountain, with His handpicked leader and prophet, Moses. It was hear that the people SAW the evidence of God’s presence on the mountain. So, we have a different mountain for a special event involving a special man, Moses.
But, the mountain of God moved. The Temple Mount became the “Mountain of God.” This is easily seen in the book of Isaiah chapter 2 and many other places. And at this place of vision, at this place where it’ll be seen, we see the establishment of a New Covenant with Jew and Gentile, this happens at this special mountain, and involves a special man, the manifestation of God Himself in Messiah Jesus.
Amazing. Could this be what’s going on? Is this what God wants us to understand and know? I am not sure but it sure makes more sense than the unbiblical, non-historical, and non-geographic views of the rabbis.
Here’s a great Jewish scholarly website that has a fantastic article on this issue. The site is called "The Torah" and here’s the link to the article - https://www.thetorah.com/article/the-mysterious-land-of-moriah
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Chapter 22 of Genesis is called HaAhkeedat Yeetzack עֲקֵידַת יִצְחַק or the Binding of Isaac. This chapter is so important to Jews and Christians. For those practicing Judaism they even have daily prayers to remember this event. Here’s a link to the fantastic website for Christians called "Hebrew4Christians" that shows the actual daily prayer Jewish people pray dealing with Isaac. Here’s the link - click here to access the prayer
For us Christians we definitely see that Jesus’ words in John 5:39 come true in this chapter. Isaac is a picture of Jesus. Chapter 22 testifies of Jesus in amazing ways. Consider …
PARALLELS BETWEEN ISAAC AND JESUS
Contributed by Dr. Larry Petton on Jan 19, 2014
www.SermonCentral.com
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Both fulfilled PROMISES: Isaac was the long-promised son to Abraham (Genesis 12:3) and Jesus was the long-promised Messiah and Son of God (Genesis 3:15; 13:3, John 1:1-12)
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Both were the ONLY SON of their father: God said that Isaac was “Your son, your only son, whom you live…” to Abraham(Genesis 22: 2) and God also said “This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased!” (Matthew 3:16, 17).
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Both had a MIRACULOUS BIRTH: Isaac was born to parents who were very old - Genesis 18:13 and Jesus was born of a virgin, Mary, and conceived by the Holy Spirit - Luke 1:34-35.
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Both had a conception and birth that was PRE-ANNOUNCED - Genesis 18:10 & Luke 1:30–31.
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Both were NAMED before their birth - Genesis 17:19 & Matthew 1:21.
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Both were MOCKED and persecuted by their own kindred - Genesis 21:9 & Mark 15:29–32.
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Both were UNDESERVING of their sacrificial death - Genesis 22:2, Luke 23:41.
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Both were sacrificed on a mountain chosen by God - Genesis 22:3 & Matthew 27:33.
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Both were LOVED by their fathers (Genesis 22:2; Matthew 3:16, 17).
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Both had a THREE-DAY experience: Isaac had a 3-day hike to Moriah and Jesus had 3 days from the cross to the grave to the resurrection.
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Both WERE accompanied by TWO MEN: Isaac by two servants (Genesis 22:3) and Jesus by two thieves (Matthew 27:38)
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Both carried their own WOOD: Isaac carried the wood for his own sacrifice (Genesis 22:6) and Jesus carried the crossbeam of his cross (John 19:17).
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Both SUBMITTED to their father: Isaac willingly laid down his life, submitting to his father (Genesis 22:9) and Jesus submitted to his Father’s will and laid down his life for our sin (Luke 22:42, Romans 5:8).
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Both asked a QUESTION of their father: Isaac asked Abraham “Here is the fire and the wood, Father, but where is the lamb? (Gen. 22:7) and Jesus cried “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” from the cross (Matthew 27:46).
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Both were BROUGHT BACK from the dead: Isaac was “brought back” figuratively (Genesis 22:12) by the faith of Abraham and Jesus rose from the dead 3 days after he was crucified (Matthew 28:6-7).
For the Jewish people they see these events and hope and pray they can be faithful to the Lord every day. No matter what the circumstances or the troubles they are in. But, so do we as Christians pray the same thing. In the Lord’s pray we say, “Father, do not lead us into temptation.” Huh? That’s nuts. How can God lead us into situations where we will sin and lose our salvation? That makes no sense. In lesson 9 in the series on “The Lord’s Prayer” I go into this phrase in depth. There we see that in the Greek and in the Greek to the Hebrew, it really says, “Father, do not lead us into trials, tests, or difficulties that are too much for us to bear.” I highly recommend you check out lesson 9 in that series. Here’s the link – click here for lesson 9
So, we too as the Jewish people, pray we will not be faced with terrible trials and troubles that we can face. But, our hope together, is that we can keep the faith and “stay the course” as children of Abraham as Paul tells us we are in Gal.3:6-9 …
Even so Abraham BELIEVED GOD, AND IT WAS RECKONED TO HIM AS RIGHTEOUSNESS. Therefore, be sure that it is those who are of faith who are sons of Abraham. The Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, "ALL THE NATIONS WILL BE BLESSED IN YOU." So then those who are of faith are blessed with Abraham, the believer.
So come and join us as we study this amazing chapter in the first book of the Torah, the books of Moses.
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - click here
As we enter Exodus chapter 8, as we continue with the “battle of the Gods,” we will see, clearly, that so many of us do not have a full understanding of the plagues of Egypt. Without knowing the ancient culture of Egypt, the ancient religion of Egypt, their gods, the true job of Pharaoh, the king, our understanding of what Yahvay is trying to get across to us is limited. An example, the 1st plague of the 1st triad of plagues (plagues 1-9 are in three triads and follow an amazing pattern) when God changed the Nile to blood, Pharaoh is by the Nile in the morning. If one knows the ancient culture of Egypt one will know a more reasonable answer as to why he is there. On top of that, there is a truth the Lord is trying to teach us but we miss it. Moses didn’t. Aaron didn’t nor the Hebrews. They all knew Egypt intimately and understood why Pharaoh was down by the river in the morning. Once again, as we study the plagues, we will see things we never saw because the seminaries have not trained church leaders and teachers of the Bible in its historical perspective. Quite simply the church has abandoned the Bible in its historical context and we lost 90 or 95 percent of what the Lord is trying to get across.
There are 10 verses from Exodus 7 through 14 that are so amazing. Just consider them.
Exo_7:5 "The Egyptians shall know that I am the LORD, when I stretch out My hand on Egypt and bring out the sons of Israel from their midst."
Exo_7:17 'Thus says the LORD, "By this you shall know that I am the LORD: behold, I will strike the water that is in the Nile with the staff that is in my hand, and it will be turned to blood.
Exo_8:10 Then he said, "Tomorrow." So he said, "May it be according to your word, that you may know that there is no one like the LORD our God.
Exo_8:22 "But on that day I will set apart the land of Goshen, where My people are living, so that no swarms of flies will be there, in order that you may know that I, the LORD, am in the midst of the land.
Exo_9:14 "For this time I will send all My plagues on you and your servants and your people, so that you may know that there is no one like Me in all the earth.
Exo_9:29 Moses said to him, "As soon as I go out of the city, I will spread out my hands to the LORD; the thunder will cease and there will be hail no longer, that you may know that the earth is the LORD'S.
Exo_9:30 "But as for you and your servants, I know that you do not yet fear the LORD God."
Exo_10:2 and that you may tell in the hearing of your son, and of your grandson, how I made a mockery of the Egyptians and how I performed My signs among them, that you may know that I am the LORD."
Exo_14:4 "Thus I will harden Pharaoh's heart, and he will chase after them; and I will be honored through Pharaoh and all his army, and the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD." And they did so.
Exo_14:18 "Then the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD, when I am honored through Pharaoh, through his chariots and his horsemen."
In each case God shows that He loves the Egyptians and Pharaoh. He wants them to KNOW Him. In this lesson we will delve into this truth; we will see that God does not want anyone to perish but all to turn to Him, to repent, and turn away from their evil ways and LIVE! But, there’s even more. We will see this is what Jesus teaches. We will see the connection between John 3:16 and these ten verses in Exodus. We will see the dramatic use of the phrase, “the finger of God,” that demonstrates that Jesus is Lord, Jesus is God, Jesus is the one and only God of the Universe.
Here are a few links to study some of the concepts brought up in this lesson. The first is an article on the awesome god of Egypt, Heka - MAGIC!!
Link - https://www.worldhistory.org/Heka/
The next link it dealing with Ma'at. She was a goddess in Moses day and represented truth, justice, order, harmony, goodness, and peace. Here picture is below. (Free picture from Wikimedia).
She was the primary goddess that Pharaoh served and understanding Ma'at and Pharaoh's connection to Ma'at helps us grasp a deeper understanding of what God is doing in the plagues. Here's the link -
https://www.ancient-origins.net/history-ancient-traditions/maat-ancient-egyptian-goddess-truth-justice-and-morality-003131
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link -click here for the teacher's background
The battle between the Lord (the word "Lord" in your Bible is the English word used for the Hebrew name of God, יהוה or YahVay) and all the gods of Egypt begins. We study the first plague, the Nile is turned into blood, into death. One wonders if this is payback. Pharaoh ordered all Egyptians to toss the Hebrew new born baby boys into the Nile and drown them. Pharaoh turned the Nile into a river of death. Dennis Prager in his Torah commentary, “Exodus: the Rationale Bible,” suggests that God then also turned the Nile into a river of blood, a river of death. Measure for measure or as Jesus says, “you will sow what you reap.” So Pharaoh sowed death and Yahvay returned it back unto Pharaoh and all Egypt. It’s possible and it makes sense.
But, there is so much more. Once again what you are about to learn you will never learn in Sunday school or in your Messianic congregation on Shabbat. You will never learn, for example, the connection between Genesis and Exodus and the book of Revelation. Once again, few ever study the Bible in its historical context. When you do your understanding is expanded and enriched; you will see things God intended as we reconnect to the way the first hearers of God’s Torah heard. We have missed do much.
In this podcast I said I would provide valuable links so you can expand your study. The links are below and I do hope they are worthwhile for many of you who are serious students of the Bible.
The first link is to Ray Vander Laan's video series on Egypt. By accessing these links you can see short previews of the videos. If you do purchase them, and I highly recommend you purchase the video study guide as well. As a Bible historian I think the books that go along with the videos are more valuable than the videos. Here's link to all three of the dvd's on Egypt.
Video 1 - https://www.thattheworldmayknow.com/god-heard-their-cry
Video 2 - https://www.thattheworldmayknow.com/fire-on-the-mountain
Video 3 - https://www.thattheworldmayknow.com/with-all-your-heart
One scholar who has done amazing work on the feasts is David Padfield. I am providing a link to his class notebook entitled, "The Gods of Egypt." It is free to download. Once there you can explore the many other study resources that are available from this ministry.
Link - https://www.padfield.com/acrobat/history/gods_of_egypt.pdf
The main job of Pharaoh was to preserve Ma'at or order. Pharaoh's role was to prevent chaos. If he did, then when he died then they'd weigh his heart on the scale of judgment in the Hall of Ma'at (the goddess of truth, order, harmony, prosperity, life) against the feather of Ma'at. If Pharaoh maintained order, Ma'at, and stopped chaos, his heart would be lighter than the feather and Pharaoh would enter eternal life with the gods. If he didn't, if his heart was HEAVY, heavier than Ma'at's feather, Pharaoh would be judged and condemned to eternal damnation. Here's one link to learn about this.
Link - https://www.thetorah.com/article/pharaohs-divine-role-in-maintaining-maat-order
All ancient Egyptian cosmologies, the way things began, have things in common. One is that all the main gods of Egypt, the creator gods, arose out of the primordial sea and darkness. Here's a neat video that delves into these common features of the ancient Egyptian creation accounts.
Link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTy49JlgJZE
In this podcast I talked about the seasons of the year in ancient Egypt. Here's a link to a picture detailing these three seasons.
Link - https://www.pinterest.com/pin/630926229039184930/
Finally, here is a link to the festivals in ancient Egypt. In this podcast we talked about the festival of Min. This festival occurred in the month of the Exodus and it explains why Pharaoh was probably at the river when God commanded Moses and Aaron to go a meet Pharaoh. But, it explains even more once you understand the god Min.
Link - http://www.touregypt.net/featurestories/festival.htm
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - click here
This session sets the stage for the Battle of the Gods. The Lord tells Moses that all this is to come against the Egyptian gods in Ex. 12:12. This is what we will see. All the gods of Egypt are nature gods. They are depicted as animals and as men and women. In the ten plaques God attacks these nature gods. It shows the bigger picture that right from the "get go" that the Bible is against deifying nature. This battle is not over since today we see such a deification of nature; the earth among many is called Mother and thus is perhaps deemed in authority over mankind. This is totally against what God told Adam and Eve. Mankind is to rule over nature and not let it overcome us. Nature was made for man.
This lesson will take us back to Genesis. This lesson will take us to Revelation. We will see that the lead gods of Egypt, Amun, Re, Atum, Ptah, and Khnum are connected to animals, to beasts. We will see that these beasts, these lead gods, those considered as creator gods, all came out of the sea, the primordial ocean. Other gods, also portrayed as beasts, come out of the land, the earth. But, in Genesis 1:1-2, God created the heavens and the earth. The God of the Bible created nature and the gods of Egypt come out of nature. So, who is God? For the Hebrews coming out of Egypt, they get it. The message in the Torah, God's instruction and not law, is the Lord, יהוה Yahvay, is the one who is over all gods, all the gods of Egypt. This was a huge lesson He needed to teach His chosen people coming out of Egypt.
And, this lesson will take us to the book of Revelation. We will again confront beasts. One comes out of the sea and another the earth. It seems this is the final battle. These beasts also are humans; one of the beasts is the anti-Christ. Interesting. The anti-Christ calls himself as god, is to be worshiped, and is also termed as a beast, an animal, a wild animal. This is just like the gods of Egypt and Pharaoh. Thus, it seems to me that the Exodus and the events of Exodus is bigger, much bigger than we thought. Amazing. What else is new? This is God, the Lord, יהוה Yahvay.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Exodus - 1446 B.C.
In part 1 we focused on real archaeology that shows 1) the Israelites were in Egypt prior to the Exodus and 2) that real archaeology supports the date of the Exodus to the 15 century B.C. or 1446 B.C. In part 2 we will deal with the dates.
In Exod. 12:40 the sons of Israel (Jacob) lived in Egypt 430 years till they left with Moses. Where does that number come from? Why doesn't anyone explain it? Also it is taught to us that the early date of the Exodus was 1446 B.C. and no one ever justifies this date. It is just stated. Why won't anyone help us understand that this date of 1446 B.C. is supported by REAL archaeology and not someone's opinion or speculation. Well, I will. This lesson is to show that the early date of the Exodus, 1446 B.C. is very likely considering the archaeology supporting it and the study of the events in their historical context.
I mentioned I will provide a number of links to resources to help you study further. These links and resources are shown below.
Link 1 - slides that may help you put all this together - click here for the slides that summarize this podcast
Link 2 - an article on Edwin Thiele that shows how he connects the Assyrian King List (calendar) to 1 Kings 6:1 - click here for the article
Link 3 - an article by Dr. Bryant Wood on setting of the date for the Exodus - click here for this amazing article that completes lesson 5 part 2
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In the previous lesson I mentioned two verses I wanted to emphasize. The first was Genesis 4:9 and in this lesson it is Genesis 4:10. God tells Cain that his brother's blood cries out to the Lord. For me as a Christian reading it in English it seems to mean to me that God is simply saying that He has witnessed Abel's murder. However, it has deeper implications. So deep matter of fact that this verse is related to the Bible's view that killing a baby in the womb is more than one death! But, the key is, NOT in English but in Hebrew.
Once again we need to reconnect to those amazing scholars Jew and Gentile to help us see what the Hebrew means and how it was understood in Jesus' day and before. Thus, once we understand the Lord's original meaning it helps us today apply it the way it was intended.
Many times in this series I bring up two sources that are so helpful for the study of the Torah for us Christians. One is the Torah commentary by Dr. John Currid. The second is the JPS (Jerusalem Publication Society) Torah Commentary. I recommend both of these resources for any of you who are serious Bible students.
Another great resource is this web site (link below). It is entitled "Hebrew 4 Christians." At this website are amazing resources for you to go deeper in understanding the Jewish background of the Bible, to learn Hebrew, and to study Torah as a disciple of Yeshua. Here's the link - https://hebrew4christians.com/index.html
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Here's some special news about upcoming events. First. Light of Menorah will do a new class entitled, "Emmanu El - God With Us," in Apple Valley 11/16, 30 and 12/7 and 16 each night from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm. It is an awesome Bible/History study of the birth of Jesus in its historical and Jewish context. This will truly enrich your understanding of this special event an enhance your celebration of the coming of the Messiah this year. Here's the link for all the details and registration (seating is very limited) - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/emmanu-el-god-with-us-tickets-205217520127
Also, coming November 28th - the video series entitled, "Chanukah: Return of the King." Jesus seems to use Chanukah to help His disciples then understand the End Times and His return. This will blow you away. The season of light. Christians worldwide remember the 1st coming of the Light of the World. Jesus uses Chanukah to teach of the second coming of the Light of the World.
VIDEO 1 - after 6 PM NOV 27 - first video that "sets the stage" for the entire series. VIDEO 2 - after 6 PM - NOV 28TH CANDLE 1 VIDEO 3 - after 6 PM - NOV 29TH CANDLE 2 VIDEO 4 - after 6 PM - NOV 30TH CANDLE 3 VIDEO 5 - after 6 PM - DEC 1ST CANDLE 4 VIDEO 6 - after 6 PM - DEC 2ND CANDLE 5 VIDEO 7 - after 6 PM - DEC 3RD CANDLE 6 VIDEO 8 - after 6 PM - DEC 4TH CANDLE 7 VIDEO 9 - after 6 PM - DEC 5TH CANDLE 8 VIDEO 10 - after 6 PM - DEC 6TH - the explosive ending (Chanukah menorah picture is public domain at Pixabay.com)
The Hebrews experienced a difficult life under a powerful pagan government, Pharaoh and Egypt. Pharaoh as king was looked to by the everyday common people as the one who is responsible for maintaining a good life, order, harmony, and prosperity. This was the sole purpose of the king's life - to provide government answers and solutions for the people under his authority. See the article on this historical fact - Pharaoh must maintain Ma'at - order, harmony, prosperity, good living conditions, peace - link - https://www.thetorah.com/article/pharaohs-divine-role-in-maintaining-maat-order
Hmm, sounds like our day and our times. Is God teaching us that we too live in "Egypt" and many are turning to the government, the secular non-religious leaders in Washington, and in "big tech," to provide us with a good life, order, harmony, shalom, and prosperity. All we need do is "toe their line" and obey their man made rules and dismiss our heritage and worldview. But, just as God is all powerful over Pharaoh and Egypt, the Lord is the one who is in control over us. Just as God brought His wrath upon Egypt, it seems likely He will continue to bring wrath upon this nation - a nation that has murdered 60 million babies in the womb and now says there is no such thing as a man or a woman and thus contradicting the creation of God and common sense truth.
In these four short verses we also encounter a major translation error. A renowned Jewish rabbi shows conclusively that the translators, Jew and Gentile, made this error. It changes the entire meaning for the Hebrews toward their Egyptian neighbors from hate to love. It is amazing. Once we see this error as Christians we would say "of course, that is what God is like." Imagine, God teaching His people to love and be gracious to the everyday Egyptian who probably were perceived as the enemies of the Hebrews. Didn't the Egyptians enslave them and kill their boys by drowning them? And, once again, in these four short verses, we find a powerful and impacting lesson for us today. True Christians today are being taught again and again what we are to be like in these awful days of disruption and chaos. It goes right back to Jesus when He told us what a true disciple of His is like in Matt. 5:43-45.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
God asks Cain where Abel was? He was not around? Something had happened. We know that something happened when we read ... "Cain told Abel his brother. And it came about when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother and killed him." (Gen 4:8) This was the first murder recorded in the Torah. And we know that it says that ... "You shall not murder." (Exo 20:13). The King James got it wrong when it says thou shalt not kill. The Hebrew word is תרצח H7523 pronounced "tretzach" which does not mean kill but murder in the Gesenius Lexicon. And later in Exod. 21:12-14 we read ... "He who strikes a man so that he dies shall surely be put to death. But if he did not lie in wait for him, but God let him fall into his hand, then I will appoint you a place to which he may flee. If, however, a man acts presumptuously toward his neighbor, so as to kill him craftily, you are to take him even from My altar, that he may die." (Exo 21:12-14) But, if God wants murderers executed why was Cain kept alive? Shouldn't have Cain been killed by God to maintain unity of His law and commands? Interesting. Let's go and explore this event in its historical context and in the Hebrew and not the English.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Moses is still in an intense conversation with the awesome God of the universe. Moses learned of His name - he was the first human to encounter the Lord and be given His name. But, the Lord tells Moses that He picked Moses to go up against Pharaoh to get Pharaoh to let God's people go; the give freedom to Israel. Moses starts objecting. Wouldn't you? He is to return to Egypt. Yes, the Lord said He'd go with him. But, don't forget Moses killed an Egyptian and he faces death if he returns for this act. But, on top of that this shepherd, this lowly man of the wilderness, is to go up against the most powerful king of the most powerful nation on earth at the time, and convince Pharaoh on letting the Hebrews go. Moses knows this is futile. He wants out. Moses is thinking what is the matter with this God? There is NO WAY Moses wants any part of this. In this lesson we hear Moses' first two objections of five as he continues his intense dialogue with יהוה Yahvay, אֱלֹהִים Eloheem, the LORD God. Come join us as we continue as we have a front row seat to this amazing meeting at the bush that didn't burn.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
The way is closed to the Father and the Tree of Life. This was the ending of Genesis chapter 3. Now what? This is where it is clear that Jesus, when He says in John 5:39, sometime between 24-30 A.D., that all scripture testifies of Him, we see the GOOD NEWS, the GOSPEL according to Moses. Jesus says He is the Way and the Truth and the Life. He is the Way and the only way to the Father! This is obviously so connected to the fact that the way is closed to the Father after the sin of Adam and Eve. But, Jesus is clearly telling us the WAY is open, we can go back , we can enter Gan Eden, Paradise, if we chose Him. Adam and Eve freely chose to disobey God and they lost it all. Now, God sets up the same situation in reverse. If we chose Jesus then we gain it all, we gain eternal life!
But, in Matthew's Gospel Jesus says that there are many who will come and say they did this or that in Jesus' name. And Jesus said that is nothing. It amounts to NIL. Why? Jesus said He did not KNOW them. I wonder. Jesus is speaking Hebrew and not Aramaic. He says they did not KNOW Him. The first time this word comes up in the Torah is Genesis 4:1, or Adam KNEW his wife. Is there something about this word KNOW in Hebrew that will give us insight into our relationship with Yeshua? You bet.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
This podcast is broken into two separate parts. Part 1 sets up the historical context and part 2 applies it to a special verse about Jesus.
The name of God is so special and so holy (kadosh קדוש) - meaning set apart, special, distinct. The rabbis in Jesus' day and even before even made up a new law - don't say God's name so you won't break the commandment that says do not take HIS name in vain. Therefore, in Jesus' day the tetragrammaton, yud hay vav hay יהוה, was not said. Other words were substituted like Adonai meaning ""Lord" or HaShem meaning "the Name." So one might say God's name, יהוה, I pronounce it "Yah Vay," is a name so above other names, so beyond other names, separate and set apart or kadosh קדוש - God even says this about His name.
This is the historical context we need to understand when we read the New Testament. Religious Jews who followed Jesus as Lord, as Savior, as God, knew this. It was part of their everyday culture. Thus, the verses Phil 2:5-11 take on a whole new meaning. We then ask Jesus, "What is your name? What is your REAL name?"
Here are links to the articles I referenced in these podcasts.
Judaism 101 - Jewish law or halakah (one's walk) - click here to learn about Jewish law in Jesus' day
David Biven's article - "Jesus and the Oral Law: the Unutterable Name of God." -
click here for the article from Jerusalem Perspective
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Hey everyone, there is a new video series called "Five Small Stones." Episode 5 was just released. Listen to the directions to access the whole series - click on the audio below. If you haven't listened to any of these short 5 minute video Bible lessons, I urge you to listen to all five. Each lesson is only five minutes! Enjoy and may each minute be like a small stone that is a blessing to you to walk in a more passionate way with the Lord.
The way is closed to the tree of life and the Father. How can we get back? How do we come again to be with our Abba, to dwell with Him in His Kingdom? There has to be a way?
In this lesson, in this verse of Gen. 3:24, we see what Jesus meant in John 5:39 when He said that all Scripture testifies of Himself. He said it between 24-30 A.D. in the Temple Courts. The only Bible they knew then was the Torah, the Prophets (HaNevi'im) and the Writings (HaKetuvim) or the TaNacK, the Hebrew Scriptures or the Old Testament. Old? Nothing old about it - it is God's word and God said His word is the Bread of Life.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Please, please consider a financial donation to Light of Menorah. We depend upon you to help us continue to go on and do what we do for you. As an FYI, no one received a salary in Light of Menorah. Your donation goes to the ministry 100%. Use this link to get our address to send the donation or to donate on line - click here to donate
It is amazing how God uses the major event in Judaism, the Exodus, to teach us what His ultimate redemption of all men and women will be like. The Exodus stands alone as a major event in human history. It is amazing that God chose one people to be His chosen people so that the world would come to know Him, the God of Abraham, the one God, the only God through Israel. He didn't pick Israel because they were somehow better than every other people. No. Just the opposite. They were a stubborn and stiff necked people and the Lord teaches them it is not that they are righteous that He is doing all this ...
"Do not say in your heart when the LORD your God has driven them out before you, 'Because of my righteousness the LORD has brought me in to possess this land,' but it is because of the wickedness of these nations that the LORD is dispossessing them before you. "It is not for your righteousness or for the uprightness of your heart that you are going to possess their land, but it is because of the wickedness of these nations that the LORD your God is driving them out before you, in order to confirm the oath which the LORD swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. (Deu 9:4-5)
And later in Isaiah 42:6 & 49:6 we learn that God has a purpose for Israel, His servant. They are to bring His salvation (salvation in Hebrew is YESHUA יְשׁוּעָה or, in English, Jesus!) God will bring His Yeshua יְשׁוּעָה, His salvation, to the whole world through Israel.
The first redemption is the Exodus. And God seems to teach all of us that to understand the ULTIMATE redemption we need to understand the Exodus. If we understand the first we will understand the second; we will understand the Jesus and the Cross. This became the major event in Christianity.
So. Let us dive in to the study of Exodus. Let us ask how God brings us the Gospel and the Good News of the Kingdom to us via the pen of Moses. Let us turn to study THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO MOSES.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
God said to Adam and Eve that on the day they eat from the special tree they would die. They did not die the day they ate the "forbidden" fruit. Adam lived a long time - 930 years.
The Hebrew word for day is - יום - YOM. Does it mean a 24 hour period? Does it mean one day from midnight to midnight? If so then we have a problem with Gen. 2:4 - it clearly states that God created the heavens and the earth in a day. But in Genesis 1 it took 6 days. So, is this an issue with the word of God? Did God make a mistake? Did God mean it when He said to Adam and Eve they'd die the day they ate from the special tree?
Another thing we will consider is John 5:39. Jesus says this in 24-30 A.D. to those Jews THEN that all scripture testifies of Himself. What scripture did they have THEN? All they had was the Hebrew Scriptures or the Old Testament. I don't like calling it the Old Testament since there is nothing "old" about it - it is God's word! The foundation of the Hebrew Scriptures is the Torah, the first five books - Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. As we focus on Genesis 3 we will see Jesus like never before as He said He is the only WAY to the Father. In Genesis 3 we will see the GOSPEL as God inspired Moses to write it - the Gospel According to Moses.
Here's a link to a website that helps with understanding Hebrew words like יום - YOM - click here to understand the word YOM
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
EXODUS – Did It Happen? When?
The next two lessons are critically important for everyday Christians to finally separate hype from truth and fantastic outlandish claims regarding the Exodus to see and learn of the real evidence that again shows the truth of the Bible and that it is God’s inspired word.
Lesson 5 is in two parts. In part 1 we will focus on real archaeology, real evidence, not patterns of evidence, or hints at evidence, about the Exodus. There is no need for me to re-teach or re-present that which has already been researched and completed. In this lesson you will learn about the Associates for Biblical Research (I will use ABR for the name of this ministry), a Christian ministry made up of Christian evangelical Bible historians and archaeologists. Their website is https://biblearchaeology.org/
This is a must “go to” internet resource for everyday Christians to learn about the veracity of the Bible – the Bible is true, credible, and can be depended upon from Genesis 1 to Revelation 22. These proven Christian professional archaeologists have a mission to show via real archaeology the evidence of the truth of the inspired word of God, the Bible. In addition these archaeologists using the truth that comes out of archaeology want to spread the gospel of the Kingdom to all. There are stories of people who were agnostic or total unbelievers who came to be followers of Jesus Christ because of ABR and their awesome scholarly work in Biblical archeology.
In this podcast, part 1 of lesson 5, I mentioned an amazing video TV series that is free to all on the website for the Associates for Biblical Research (ABR) called, “Digging for Truth.” There are over 100 episodes from proving Daniel is a real prophet of the Lord and that he gave his accurate prophecies in the early 5th century B.C. to showing that the resurrection of Jesus is true. Again and again as you watch these TV programs (most about 30 minutes in length) you will see all the crazy ideas and theories available on the internet are completely proven false.
Here’s the link to the complete list of episodes for “Digging for Truth” – click here for all episodes of "Digging for Truth"
The links below are to access the three-part series by Dr. Bryant Wood of ABR on the real archaeology that shows Israel was in Egypt; it shows the real probability they were there also just before the time of the Exodus in 1446 B.C.
Video 1 - video part 1
Video 2 - video part 2
Video 3 - video part 3
The links below here are for the two-part series by Dr. Scott Stripling of ABR on the archaeology, the real evidence of the date of the Exodus in the 15th century B.C. or 1446 B.C.
1st episode – video 1
2nd episode - video 2
Here’s the link to the article at ABR that shows that Dr. David Rohl’s theory of his new Egypt chronology that is used as the ONLY proof of the date of the Exodus in the DVD video “Patterns of Evidence” is only a theory; it is highly criticized by Egyptologists, and creates more problems than it solves. Dr. Rohl an agnostic tries to make up a theory to prove the date of the Exodus. A theory that is unproven with any degree of completeness. But, we are not interested in theories but real evidence of the Exodus. Link – click here
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
God creates whales and seals and sharks and lobsters and walleye and catfish and cows and dogs and lions and tigers and pigs ... He creates all the "living creatures." In Hebrew the word is נֶפֶשׁ nephesh. But, God also "forms" man and man is called נֶפֶשׁ nephesh. Are animals and man the same? Today some say this is the case. Today some say animals have the same rights as humans since animals and humans are the same. How can this be? Moreover, Jewish and Christian translators translate נֶפֶשׁ nephesh as soul! For example in Deut. 6:5 it says we are to love God with are whole heart and soul or נֶפֶשׁ nephesh. So, the Bible in English could be used to justify the crazy world view that animals and humans are the same. They are living creatures and they have souls! How does God distinguish man from the animals? Is there something we are missing? You bet.
Another thing we will study in lesson 9 is that God uses His Torah as a polemic against Egypt. Again, a polemic is a strong truth claim attacking an opposing truth claim. God is inspiring Moses to write a polemic against Egypt. An example is in Egypt there is a god called Khum. He is a creator god and in one of the creation stories in ancient Egypt, Khum is called the POTTER in that Khum formed all creation, stars, planets, sky, the earth, the oceans, and all animals and plants and man and woman and all the gods on his potter wheel. Here is an article about the Egyptian god Khum you may be interested in as an addition to your study - click here for the article But the Bible says that the God of the Bible is the potter and we are the clay.
But now, O LORD, You are our Father, We are the clay, and You our potter; And all of us are the work of Your hand. (Isa 64:8)
How does God come against Khum? How does God inspire Moses to help the Hebrews coming out of Egypt see that Khum is not the potter, not the creator, and a false god?
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
We finally come to the end of this podcast series, “The Fall Feasts of Adonai.” In lesson 3 of Sukkot we started seeing the amazing “shadows” of the Messiah over Sukkot. Indeed there really seems to be NO excuse for the “church” to ignore not doing the “feasts” as they testify of Jesus anymore. The early church fathers contributed to the separation of us from our Jewish roots. But, with archaeology and sound historical scholarship, we can reconnect to the days of Yeshua and hear as they heard and see as they saw and understand in ways that ony enhance and expand our understanding of God's truth, of God's Gospel. The Lord told us in John 5:39. He taught us when all they had was the Hebrew Scriptures that all scripture testifies of Him! Yes, Sukkot testifies of Yeshua.
In this session we need to understand how this “appointed time” of the Lord is a time of great joy for all seasons. The Jewish rabbis of Jesus day understood it. But now, with Jesus who has come and will return, we now see an amazing correlation to the events that happened in the Temple in Jerusalem in Jesus’ day to His coming and that this is the Gospel, the Good News, which is for all the people of all the nations. We will also see that there is a case to be made that Jesus was perhaps born in the season of Sukkot. In other words it could be that we Christians are doing our shopping for gifts at the wrong time! It could be the ancient culture gives us sound reasons to celebrate the birth of Christ at Sukkot and not on December 25th which was a pagan holiday in ancient Rome.
Ready? Come and join the study. Come and see the amazing ways the Hebrew Scriptures testify of Yeshua, witness the ONE who will come and be suspended on “the tree” to become the source of LIVING WATER for all who proclaim Yeshua is Adonai, Yeshua is Lord, Yeshua is God.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
We come to the awesome climax of our study on the feast, the appointed time of the Lord, Sukkot. Our objective now is to heed the teaching of Paul when he taught …
Therefore no one is to act as your judge in regard to food or drink or in respect to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath day-- things which are a mere shadow of what is to come; but the substance belongs to Christ. (Col 2:16-17)
How is Jesus the Shadow over us of Sukkot? How does this feast testify of Messiah? What is amazing as we put this feast in its historical context, as we study it in the times of Yeshua, when He walked among, that we see this feast testify of His birth and His death. It is just too awesome. It is truly the season of our joy, (זְמַן שִׂמְחָתֵנוּ) "Z'man Simchateinu." What a time to sing the Jewish folk song so appropriate for this appointed time, “Have Nagilah.” See the lyrics below in Hebrew and English.
Hava nagila, hava nagila
Hava nagila ve-nis'mecha
Repeat
Hava neranena, hava neranena
Hava neranena venis'mecha
Uru, uru achim
Uru achim belev same'ach
Let us rejoice, let us rejoice
Let us rejoice and be glad
Repeat
Let us sing, let us sing
Let us sing and be glad
Awaken, awaken brethren
Awaken brethren with a cheerful heart.
Here's a link to a YouTube video of this song with the lyrics in Hebrew. Here's the link - https://youtu.be/UbjmkrUDb8c
Indeed, it is as if this “last” feast of the agricultural year is no only about the “end” but it is about the “beginning.” It is the end of the agricultural year, the harvest time that started as Passover is over. But, it is the time where all the Jews in the days of Yeshua looked forward to the beginning of the new agricultural year and the start of the early rains. So too for us disciples of our Lord Yeshua Adonai, Sukkot testifies of the day when He came to “camp out” with us, His birth, the beginning. And it testifies of His death, and His cross, which is the way for the lord to pour upon us Living Water.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
We will continue with the verse Gen. 2:3. The Hebrew - not the English - suggests that God stopped creating works that were still yet to be done! This is too awesome since this implies that we, made in His image, are to go and work just like Him. It suggests right from the "get go" we were created for a purpose. It seems clear also that this implies Jesus as well. He said that He is doing the works given to Him by the Father. He tells those listening to Him then in John 5 that He will even do greater works than what they just saw (He had just healed a man lam for 39 years). On top of that Jesus tells us on the night before He died in John 14 that if we are His true talmideem - His true disciples - that the works the Father gave Him Jesus gives to us and we also will even do "greater works." It is as if Gen. 2:3 is God's first prediction of the good news coming in the future. Now the verse Eph. 2:8-10 makes sense. Yes! We are saved by grace but at the same time we are God's workmanship created in Christ Jesus (that means we the ones called by His name, we are the ones who state that Jesus is our Lord, our Savior, God, we are His true disciples) for GOOD WORKS created BEFORE HAND!! This is an amazing connection of Eph. 2:8-10 to the Torah. But, why should it surprise us. When Paul wrote the letter to Ephesus the only Bible they had was the Hebrew Scriptures, the Old Testament.
This lesson will also address the Documentary Hypothesis - a theory that states that Moses never wrote the Torah. We will study this anti-Bible theory and show that it is false. It comes against Jesus' own words when Jesus states clearly many times that the Torah is of Moses or the Torah are the "books of Moses." Below is a link to a deep scholarly article from the Associates for Biblical Research that shows the Documentary Hypothesis is wrong and should be buried forever. Here's the link ... click here to access the article
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Many Messianic groups today will build their sukkahs in their yards and enter the sukkah on after sunset on the eve of Mo'ed Sukkot - the appointed time of Sukkot or Tabernacles. There are very many Jewish rituals and prayers that many Gentile Messianic Christians practice each evening in their sukkahs since the Jewish people do it. You can see our sukkah that we put up to practice observance of this God ordered, commanded appointed time. (See below) We put up a "tent" and not a wooden rabbinic "lean to" as ordered and commanded by the rabbis. The Hebrews dwelt in "tents" not a wooden structure with a roof of branches and leaves (see two examples of "kosher" booths or sukkahs - royalty free from Wikipedia - at the end of this introduction). For Robin and I we focus on His word, the actual Hebrew, and not made up rabbinic rules and regulations.
Robin and I needed to recapture how the feast of Tabernacles testifies of Jesus. How do we see Jesus in this feast? This was not apparent when Robin and I followed our Messianic Gentile teachers who only emphasized what the orthodox rabbis taught. Everything they taught and told us to do was not helping us relate to Yeshua, the Messiah, the Lord, our God.
In lesson 2 we try and "see" what those early believers saw when they did this feast of the Lord. And I'm not talking about the disciples in Jesus' day but the Hebrews coming out of Egypt! They were to remember living in tents when the Lord delivered them from the bondage of slavery from Egypt. Those Hebrews would remember the tents they lived in, but they would also remember, Emmanoo El עִמָּנוּ אֵל - "God with us" - and that Adonai, the Lord, Yahvay יהוה also dwelt in a tent (tabernacle is Latin for "tent"). He was with them 24/7. They saw His glorious presence coming down upon the "Tabernacle" in Exodus 40, His SHH-KEE-NAH glory. He came once to dwell in a Sukkah, a tent. Later, He came again. This time to dwell in His permanent "house" built by Solomon.
God came twice. Interesting! Sounds like something Christians know - Jesus came once and will come again. Is this somehow connected to Yeshua? Is there Biblical truth that I did not learn from so called "expert" Messianic Gentile teachers who only were stuck on Orthodox Judaism? It was wonderful to learn from them and to take part in applying Jewish rituals but looking back Jesus was not a priority. So, the answer is yes.
Once again by reconnecting to the Bible in its historical, and not rabbinic context, by reconnecting to the ancient culture and practices of Israel, we begin to "see" like they did, we begin to "hear" God's word like they did, and we begin to "understand" like they did and our walk with the Lord is enhanced and our views expanded. God goes beyond Christian theological "midrash" and theological "midrash" of Orthodox Judaism. Sukkot testifies of Adonai Yeshua. Come. Come and join us to learn how.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Pictures below accessible at Wikipedia and a public domain.
This is the time of our joy. In Hebrew (זְמַן שִׂמְחָתֵנוּ) "Z'man Simchateinu" (pronounced - sim ka tay noo). This means the "season of our JOY." If there was an argument to convince the "church" to begin to do services on God's feasts, His mo'edem, His appointed times, these three lessons might convince you - at least for Sukkot. And, even if your pastor doesn't agree since he/she is stuck in tradition or he might hold that the Old Testament and the feasts and Torah are null and void; or he/she is uncomfortable doing this and be considered "weird" among his fellow pastors - then do it yourself. Find some others who want to do the feasts. Find other fellow Christians to study together, learn how the feasts testify of Jesus as Jesus implied in John 5:39, and do your own services at your house since these are about Jesus. Perhaps the pastor would be OK if you did them at your church building. These are God's.
Again, this is from THE VERY WORDS OF GOD and not my opinion. It is time for us as real disciples of Adonai Yeshua, to do (תְשׁוּבָה) teshoovah, repentance, which actually in Hebrew means the process of "turning back." What a joy it'd be to see 1000's of tents put up during the feast of Tabernacles, Sukkot, by Christians, across the land, to praise the Lord and rejoice in the season of our JOY. You will see this in these three lessons on Sukkot. As a note, the angels who appeared to the shepherds when Jesus was born said, "I bring you news of great JOY for all people" in Like 2:10. Hmmm ... that's Christmas. That's when Jesus came to dwell amongest us. Hmmm, this sounds like Sukkot. Could it be?
Robin and I set up our tent every year. We do Sukkot as an appointed time to remember Jesus. Here's some pictures of our tent below.
God commanded the Hebrews that each year forever they are to set up a ( סוקה) sukkah, Hebrew for a tent, booth, shanty, a make shift shelter out of wood and branches. In this way they will remember the time they lived in tents with the Lord. He also dwelt in a tent (Latin for tent is "tabernacle"). God was with us! In other words, עִמָּנוּ אֵל Emmanoo El which means "God with us." This is also associated with Jesus at His birth. We will see this in lesson 1. Moreover, we will see that as God came twice to first, campout with Israel in His tent. He came a 2nd time to dwell in the House (Solomon built God's HOUSE not His Temple - see 1 Kings 5-8). Hmmm, interesting. Does this mean that Jesus came twice to first campout? Does this mean that Jesus came twice to dwell in His House? What House? The Temple, the Beit Mikdash (Holy Dwelling House) in Jerusalem is gone, it was destroyed. But, he did come to dwell in a New House, a New Temple. Wait till you see! You will then realize that this is the season of our JOY, the season of our rejoicing. Together we will sing "Hava Nagilah" together. See the lyrics below in Hebrew and English.
Hava nagila, hava nagila Hava nagila ve-nis'mecha Repeat Hava neranena, hava neranena Hava neranena venis'mecha Uru, uru achim Uru achim belev same'ach
Let us rejoice, let us rejoice Let us rejoice and be glad Repeat Let us sing, let us sing Let us sing and be glad Awaken, awaken brethren Awaken brethren with a cheerful heart.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
God does something so very interesting. First, God is out side of time. Time only is created when we have the sun and the moon. So, there is no time before the creation. And in Genesis 2:1-3 we see that God makes time kadosh קָדוֹשׁ - which is translated as holy. From the Gesenius Hebrew Lexicon we find that kadosh means to be set apart, to be set aside, to separate as special, to be distinct. Time is the first thing that God makes kadosh or set apart. Pagans make statues holy. Pagans make trees or animals holy. Pagans make buildings holy. Yet, the one God, the only God, He makes time uniquely special. One day per week there is a 24 hour period that we enter into that is special and unique. Why?
More than that we read in English that God rested. Rested? God needs a nap? God needs to kick back and "take a load off?" Huh?? Did God rest in the 7th day? Later in Exodus does He also command us to rest on the 7th day, to lay back, to take a nap? The answer is NO!! Absolutely not.
Curious? Come join us in lesson 7 and reconnect to those ancient days and to the Hebrew of the Torah and come and learn the Gospel written by Moses under the inspiration of Adonai.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Awhile back a pastor I knew did a lesson on Yom Kipppureem. In his sermon he connected Yom Kippureem to Passover for us who were Christians. I never heard this before and it was interesting. Over the years this has stayed with me and I think there is something here to be considered. Let's take a look.
1) Yom Kippureem totally involved the high priest. He alone was involved in all the sacrifices and rituals of the appointed time, no on else, so that all the unintentional sins of Israel would be forgiven and atoned for. But, Yeshua is our high priest, and He was the only one on Passover to provide a way so that our intentional sins would be forgiven and atoned for.
2) On Yom Kippureem there was one from the flocks that was the sin offering, a goat chosen by lot. On Passover, there is only one Lamb of God, Yeshua, the Lamb who takes away the sins of the world and He was chosen since the beginning of time. (Luke 9:35)
3) Today the Jewish people reserve the month before Rosh HaShana as a month to prepare for Yom Kippureem. It is the month of Elul. For us Christians we today have a time before Passover when we prepare for the remembrance of the sacrifice of the Lamb of God and the cross. We call it Lent.
4) In the year of Jubilee the shofar is to be sounded on Yom Kippureem. This is to announce that all slaves were free and all are released from their debts. Today, the shofar is blown at the end of the services for Yom Kippureem. But, on Passover, the shofar was blown in Jesus' day at the time of the sacrifice of the Passover lambs. It was at this time that Jesus died and we, as slaves to sin, chose Jesus, and proclaim Him as Lord and Savor, as God, we can confess our intentional sins are are forgiven, released, and free. He paid the price of our debt. For Jew and Gentile the shofar blast on Passover the day and hour Jesus died announces the year of Jubilee tat started then and never ends.
5) On Yom Kippureem the high priest showed up a week early. He was then in the Temple getting ready of his big day on Yom Kippureem. Jesus as well. He showed up in Bethany six days before Passover, the day of the sacrifice of the Lamb of God. He was in the Temple and it was as if Jesus was teaching and witnessing His word before His terrible day when WE crucified Him due to our sin.
There probably is more. And there is. But now. Come. Study this last lesson on Yom Kippureem. Study and see and hear how Jesus is the shadow of this appointed time over us.
Therefore let no one sit in judgment on you in matters of food and drink, or with regard to a feast day or a New Moon or a Sabbath. Such [things] are only the shadow of things that are to come, and they have only a symbolic value. But the reality (the substance, the solid fact of what is foreshadowed, the body of it) belongs to Christ. (Col 2:16-17)
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In this second lesson on the most holiest day for the religious Jewish people, Yom Kippureem יום הכיפורים - the day of Atonements יום הכיפורים - we wonder if the Hebrews did this "feast" during the 40 years in the Sinai? Did they do it in David's day, Solomon's, or Hezekiah's?
In Jesus' day Yom Kippureem יום הכיפורים was devoutly practiced and it was called "The Great Day" or "The Day" or simply the "The Fast." This can be seen in the books of Acts when Paul was on that sea voyage and experienced the ship wreck. Consider ...
When we had sailed slowly for a good many days, and with difficulty had arrived off Cnidus, since the wind did not permit us to go farther, we sailed under the shelter of Crete, off Salmone; and with difficulty sailing past it we came to a place called Fair Havens, near which was the city of Lasea. When considerable time had passed and the voyage was now dangerous, since even the fast was already over, Paul began to admonish them, and said to them, "Men, I perceive that the voyage will certainly be with damage and great loss, not only of the cargo and the ship, but also of our lives." (Act 27:7-10)
Dr. Craig Keener - an superb and highly credible Bible historian and scholar - comments on this. He says ...
The “fast” here refers to Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, which occurs in September or October. Sea travel became more dangerous as winter approached (2Ti_4:21; Tit_3:12). Shipping was completely closed down from around November 10 to as late as March 10, but September 15-November 10 and March 11-May 26 were risky periods as well. (The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament. © 1993 by Craig S. Keener).
During Jesus' day the appointed time focused on the High Priest and the rituals and events taught by יהוה Yahvay, the Lord our God, in Leviticus 16. It is possible there were services in the local synagogues across Israel. However, the TORAH, God's "instruction" and not law emphasized the High Priest and the things that must be done on the Temple in Jerusalem.
After 70 A.D. Judaism changes dramatically. All things had to be rethought and looked at from a different perspective. Why? There was no Temple anymore. Now what? So, Yom Kippureem יום הכיפורים takes on a whole different way of observing this awesome day as the rabbis "made up" new rituals and new practices that are not in the Bible at all. Some are. But overall the Jewish way today of doing Yom Kippureem is not like it was in Jesus' day.
We know that there are days coming we call the Great Tribulation. We know it has to do with the predictions of the "70 Weeks" on Daniel. It was weeks of years or each year represents one day of "week." In Judaism you might hear that the "last week" of Daniel's 70 weeks is called the "Time of Jacob's Trouble." Some verses related to this in Judaism are ...
"Seventy weeks have been decreed for your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to make an end of sin, to make atonement for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy place. "So you are to know and discern that from the issuing of a decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until Messiah the Prince there will be seven weeks and sixty-two weeks; it will be built again, with plaza and moat, even in times of distress. "Then after the sixty-two weeks the Messiah will be cut off and have nothing, and the people of the prince who is to come will destroy the city and the sanctuary. And its end will come with a flood; even to the end there will be war; desolations are determined. "And he will make a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering; and on the wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate, even until a complete destruction, one that is decreed, is poured out on the one who makes desolate." (Dan 9:24-27)
Now these are the words which the LORD spoke concerning Israel and concerning Judah: "For thus says the LORD, 'I have heard a sound of terror, Of dread, and there is no peace. 'Ask now, and see If a male can give birth. Why do I see every man With his hands on his loins, as a woman in childbirth? And why have all faces turned pale? 'Alas! for that day is great, There is none like it; And it is the time of Jacob's distress, But he will be saved from it. 'It shall come about on that day,' declares the LORD of hosts, 'that I will break his yoke from off their neck and will tear off their bonds; and strangers will no longer make them their slaves. (Jer 30:4-8)
Is there some connection between Jesus, "The Time of Jacob's Distress (Trouble)," Yom Kippureem יום הכיפורים, Yom Teruah יוֹם תְּרוּעָה (rabbinic name is Rosh HaShana), and Jesus' words as we read ...
"The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel." (Mar 1:15)
Come. Join us. Let's study Yom Kippureem יום הכיפורים. Let's "see" how this appointed time is a picture of the coming of the End of Days, the awesome Day of the Lord.
Ten days after Yom Teruah יוֹם תְּרוּעָה (rabbinic name is Rosh HaShana) we come to the most holiest day for the religious Jewish people, Yom Kippureem יום הכיפורים - the day of Atonements. Already we see that when we call it Yom Kippur we are incorrect. God calls it Yom Kippureem, atonements is plural.
In this first of the three lessons on this feast (not a feast but an "appointed time" or mo'edeem מועדים - like a date - one knows the day, the time, and the place of the meeting) we will learn why it is called the day of atonements. We will see that those who teach that atonement means "AT ONE MENT" are showing their total lack of Bible knowledge and understanding. We will deal with the question that few in the pulpit can deal with and that is if on Yom Kippureem God atones and forgives ALL the sins of all the people Israel (look it up in Lev. 16:34) then what did Jesus do on the cross? Does this mean Israel is cleansed of all sins once per year, but non-Jews, like us, need Jesus? Does that mean Israel does not need Jesus? Is Israel some sort of super race in God's eyes? We will see that Yom Kippureem does not cleanse Israel of sin. We will see that indeed all men, all women, young and old, Jew and Gentile, have no hope to be forgiven of their sin unless there is the solution God provided, His death and blood sacrifice on the cross. All this is right in front of us. The confusion is cleared up easily and precisely IF you know the Hebrew and IF you know what the Torah says about UNINTENTIONAL SIN and INTENTIONAL SIN and the SIN OFFERING. All the answers are right there in front of us, but few in the church are educated in Biblical Hebrew and the ancient culture of Israel, our Jewish roots. Our seminaries are graduating highly educated pastors with no Biblical understanding, no knowledge of Biblical Hebrew or Greek, and no training in understanding the Bible in its historical context or the Jewish roots of Christianity.
Here's an awesome link to explain this - https://www.torahclass.com/old-testament-studies-tc/36-old-testament-studies-leviticus/153-lesson-2-leviticus-introduction-cont
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In part 2 of lesson 4 we deal with the questions who is Reuel? And, who is Jethro? On top of that who is Hobab? The Bible implies Reuel and Jethro and Hobab are the father-in-law of Moses (See Exod. 2:18, 3:1, Num. 10:29 and Jud. 4:11). They must be all the same guy, right? I mean that is what we are taught - same guy but had different names since they all had multiple names in those days but no one backs it up. But, Bible is clear; Hobab is the son of Reuel (Num. 10:29) and Hobab is the father-in-law of Moses (Jud. 4:11) but Reuel is the father of Zipporah Exod. 2:18), Moses' wife. This is crazy. Must mean the Bible can't be trusted right? Wrong. It is wrong since you are dealing with this in English and not Hebrew.
We end off this lesson reading that Hebrews cried out in Exod. 2:23. But, it is more than cried out. The Hebrew word is za'aka זעק H2199 which is shriek or scream in deep anguish or terror. On top of that the Hebrews cried out to no one! In Exod. 2:23 they cried out - to who? God heard them but they did not cry out, shriek in deep pain, to the Lord. Later, at the sea before they crossed over, one they were reintroduced to the God of Abraham, we read in Exod. 14:10 that Israel cried out TO THE LORD. We miss that. We think they cried out to the Lord in Exod. 2:23. That is putting words in the Bible that aren't there. They didn't know the God of their fathers anymore.
What happened? What's going on? The answer - they had assimilated into the Egyptian culture. The Bible proves it yet we missed it. All they knew were the gods of Egypt. It is easy to get Israel out of Egypt but it is nigh impossible to get Egypt out of Israel.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
I have heard the excuse of many in the "church" of why we do not do the Biblical feasts. One will say they are the Jewish feasts. And we are not Jewish. Right, you are not Jewish, but you are also wrong. Lev. 23:1-2 tells us that these feasts - actually in Hebrew they are the מועדים mow-ed-deem (H4140) or the appointed times) - belong to the Lord, belong to יהוה Yahvay. They are not only for Jews but for all God's people. On top of that Jesus also seems to imply that the feasts, the appointed times, are His. Consider ...
And He said, "Go into the city to a certain man, and say to him, 'The Teacher says, "My time is near; I am to keep the Passover at your house with My disciples."'" (Mat 26:18)
The Passover is one of the feasts, one of the מועדים mow-ed-deem and Jesus seems to say this is His. Thus, Jesus is saying He is the Lord! He is saying that the feasts are His.
Besides that Jesus says in John 5:39 ...
"You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me" (Joh 5:39)
He said this to the Scribes, the Chief Priests, the Temple Elders, and probably some Pharisees in 24-30 A.D. All they had was the Hebrew Scriptures (a.k.a. the Old Testament) and the first five books of the Bible, the Books of Moses, a.k.a. the Torah, were the key foundational books of the Bible. Jesus is saying the Torah testifies of Him, the Messiah. So, the feasts, the מועדים mow-ed-deem, testify of Jesus. Thus, some say in the church that the Biblical feasts are Jewish and only about Jewish stuff. There's nothing in the feasts about Jesus. Wrong. What did our Lord just teach us? Why won't we listen to Yeshua? We don't listen to Him and and wonder why over 80% of so called people who call themselves Christians in the USA do NOT have a Biblical worldview. We Bible teachers have a lot to answer for and it will be a fearsome thing to be face to face with Jesus when we are judged.
In part three we will look at four possible ways יוֹם תְּרוּעָה Yom Teruah or the Day of the Blast (rabbis changed it to Rosh HaShana, the head of the year) connect to Jesus. We will not make up stuff. We will not invent non-biblical connections. We will stick like glue to the very words of God and the real facts of Biblical history. We will only consider four. I think there are more and you may find others. But, the four I chose convinced me to say that once you know this then the "church" has NO excuse for not doing the מועדים mow-ed-deem of the Lord. Once Jesus is manifested in the feasts it is incumbent upon the "church" - all of us as disciples of Adonai Yeshua - to do then as an expression of our love and thankfulness. We do Christmas - nice holiday but not commanded by God. Easter - nice holiday but not commanded by God. Lent - awesome time before Easter but not commanded by God. Advent - preparing for the birth of Christ but again, man made, and not commanded by the Lord. The only one we do is Pentecost and in many churches today you attend Pentecost Sunday and it is not even brought up. But now there is no excuse. Come. Blow the shofar on the evening of יוֹם תְּרוּעָה Yom Teruah (a.k.a. Rosh HaShana) and rejoice and celebrate our new life in Jesus.
גמר חתימה בספר החיים טלה
G'mar Chatima Beh Sefer HaChaim Tahlah
May you be inscribed in the Lamb's Book of Life
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
SPECIAL PODCAST SERIES
The Fall Feasts of the Lord
Once again we return to Jesus' words in John 5:39 ...
"You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me." (Joh 5:39)
How do we "see" Jesus in Rosh HaShana? This feast of the Lord is in the Torah, the main books of the Bible in Jesus' day when He said the words found John 5:39. It is not how the Jewish people celebrate this feast. NO!! It is how the word testifies of the Messiah, Jesus the Christ. How does the Shofar sound of this feast show us Yeshua?
The word of God is clear, crystal. These are not the Jewish feasts. God says they are not but He says ...
The LORD spoke again to Moses, saying, "Speak to the sons of Israel and say to them, 'The LORD'S appointed times which you shall proclaim as holy convocations--My appointed times are these: (Lev 23:1-2)
Today the church does not celebrate one of God's "feasts." One can see why. Our pastors and leaders are not trained in Hebrew, Greek, or the Bible in its historical context. The "church" has always looked upon the feasts as Jewish and that Jesus did away with the law. So, we do not see a reason to do Jewish feasts. But they are not Jewish feasts. They are the Lord's. Perhaps, if we "see" how they relate to Jesus, a church may consider a service on the evening or day of Rosh HaShana. The service might entail songs of praise and thanksgiving and perhaps a community meal or pizza party. Once you see the Christian meaning of all this then a church could once again say to our Father, "Abba, we come today to join with you on YOUR 'appointed time' and seek Your face and Your love on Your Feast that we have turned from in our lack of understanding.
In parts one and two and three of this series we will focus on Rosh HaShana. We will find that the rabbis made up the name, Rosh HaShana, and said the feasts was a celebration of the New Year. No way - not in its historical context. Once we get the rabbinic midrash out of the way the meaning of this feast, called the Day of the Blast in Torah, becomes clear and powerful and then we can see Jesus, we can see the Messiah. It then is a challenge for the "church" to understand Yom Teruah, Rosh HaShana, and to consider a praise service to honor the Lord and meet with Him on His "appointed time," and time and day He wants us to get together.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
SPECIAL PODCAST SERIES
The Fall Feasts of the Lord
Once again we return to Jesus' words in John 5:39 ...
"You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me." (Joh 5:39)
He said this sometime between 24-30 A.D. and scripture then was the Hebrew Scriptures (a.k.a. the Old Testament). The primary books of the Hebrew scriptures is the Torah, the first five books of the Bible. Thus, then, how do these scriptures testify of Jesus? How do we see Jesus in the Torah? This relates to the Rosh HaShana since this "feast" is mentioned several times in the Torah. So, how do we "see" Jesus in Rosh HaShana?
The word of God is clear, crystal. These are not the Jewish feasts. God says they are not but He says ...
The LORD spoke again to Moses, saying, "Speak to the sons of Israel and say to them, 'The LORD'S appointed times which you shall proclaim as holy convocations--My appointed times are these: (Lev 23:1-2)
Today the church does not celebrate one of God's "feasts." Not one except Pentecost, or in Hebrew, Shavuot, the feast of weeks. And, even then, they do not even understand the deeper and more expanded meaning of Pentecost. Why not? Simple, the church is so cutoff from its Jewish roots. It has been emphasized that the old is done away with and the new has come so we are not under the rules and commands of the Old Testament. The "church" has taught for centuries that what is Jewish is wrong, obsolete, and Jesus came against it. This is totally wrong and misguided. Jesus never did away with the Torah and the commands in Torah. He came to complete the Torah, to do what the Torah could never do. Just like we read when Paul taught in the synagogue in Antioch of Pisidia in southern Turkey ...
"Therefore let it be known to you, brethren, that through Him forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you, and through Him everyone who believes is freed from all things, from which you could not be freed through the Law of Moses (another way of naming the fist five books of the Bible, the Torah). (Act 13:38-39)
Jesus is God, Jesus is Lord, and Paul reiterates that there is only ONE God. Thus, these "feasts" are His, they are the feasts of Jesus. I suggest that once you see Jesus in these commanded times the church can then consider to do these feasts in a Christian way as we see Jesus.
In parts one and two and three of this series we will focus on Rosh HaShana. We will find that the rabbis made up the name, Rosh HaShana, and said the feasts was a celebration of the New Year. No way - not in its historical context. Once we get the rabbinic midrash out of the way the meaning of this feast, called the Day of the Blast in Torah, becomes clear and powerful and then we can see Jesus, we can see the Messiah. It then is a challenge then to the "church" to understand Yom Teruah, Rosh HaShana, and to consider a praise service to honor the Lord and meet with Him on His "appointed time," and time and day He wants us to get together.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In lesson 5 we focus again on the critical verses in Genesis chapter 1. In this session we will address the concept of God creating everything through His word; creating everything by simply saying let it be and it was - out of nothing - EX NIHILO. And, in addition, this lesson will introduce the idea that to understand the Torah we need to understand ancient Egypt of the 18 Dynasty at the time of the Exodus. The Hebrews likely have assimilated into the Egyptian culture and, for the most part, do not know the God of Abraham and the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob. So how does God take Egypt out of the Hebrews? This concept is called "polemic theology" where a polemic is a concept that is diametrically opposed to a competing concept. In this case who is God? Is it Amun-Ra, the supreme pagan false god of Egypt in 1446 B.C. or is it Adonai Eloheem, the Lord God of the Bible? How would the true God teach the they mythology of Egypt is false and incorrect using Genesis 1:1-2?
For further study use this link to study the idea that the Hebrews had assimilated into the pagan culture of Egypt. Here's the link - click here for the article showing the assimilation of the Hebrews
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In this lesson (two parts) we ask where does Stephen come up with that idea that Moses is 40 years old when he killed the Egyptian and fled to Midian? The Torah is silent. It does not give Moses' age and yet about 1400 years later Stephen says he is. Where did he get it from?
On top of that did Moses commit first degree murder? It sure seems like he did when we read it in English! Uh oh. If we go into the Hebrew do things become clearer; do they make more sense? Hmmm. I wonder.
Who is Reuel? Who is Jethro? Who is Hobab? The Bible implies Reuel and Jethro and Hobab are the father-in-law of Moses. Huh? Oh sure. They are all the same guy right? I mean that is what we are taught. This can't be since the Bible is clear; Hobab is the son of Reuel and Hobab is the father-in-law of Moses but Reuel is the father of Zipporah, Moses' wife. This is crazy. Must mean the Bible can't be trusted right? Wrong.
Finally, we learn that the Hebrews cry out in Exod. 2:23 and it is a blessing that God heard their cry. Why? The Hebrews cried out to no one! We miss that. We think they cried out to the Lord. That is putting words in the Bible that aren't there. They didn't know the God of their fathers anymore. They had assimilated into the Egyptian culture. The Bible proves it yet we missed it. All they knew were the gods of Egypt. It is easy to get Israel out of Egypt but it is nigh impossible to get Egypt out of Israel.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In lesson 4 we will focus on two terms. The first is "HEAVENS" and the next is "LIVING CREATURES." We will study these terms in Hebrew and find that our modern ideas are again challenged once we understand what the terms mean in Hebrew and what the Bible says and not what men say. However, as we do focus on hearing the Torah on its own terms, and not on man's view, our understanding of God, who He is, and ourselves is deepened, clarified and enhanced.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In part 2 of lesson 3 we will deal with a very important topic. Today there are well meaning pseudo scholars teaching Bible lessons on the radio, podcasts, videos on You Tube, etc. and are 1) incorrectly giving meaning to words or verses since they ignore the Hebrew textual context and the Hebrew conceptual meaning of words, and 2) using improper means to force the Bible to say something it does not say so as to agree with the point they are making, and 3) thus resulting in misleading literally thousands of normal everyday believers around the world.
In lesson 1 we talked about an issue highlighted in the verses below from the King James Version …
Make thee an ark (Borrowed from the ancient Egyptian - H8392 têvâh תֵּבָה) of gopher wood; rooms shalt thou make in the ark, and shalt pitch it within and without with pitch. (Gen 6:14)
And when she could not longer hide him, she took for him an ark (H8392 têvâh תֵּבָה) of bulrushes, and daubed it with slime and with pitch, and put the child therein; and she laid it in the flags by the river's brink. (Exo 2:3)
And they shall make an ark (H727 ârôn אָרֹן ) of shittim wood: two cubits and a half shall be the length thereof, and a cubit and a half the breadth thereof, and a cubit and a half the height thereof. (Exo 25:10)
We can obviously see in the verses above the two distinct words in the King James in Hebrew that are translated as ARK. In the first two verses the word ark us used for the ark Noah built and the “basket” or ark Moses was put in by his mother to keep him alive. Moreover the Hebrew word TEVAH is an Egyptian word brought into the Hebrew. Like the name Moses. His name is not Hebrew but Egyptian. The 3rd verse is the ark of the covenant.
Clearly we have two separate words in Hebrew with two distinct conceptual meanings and in the textual context are not related to each other. And yet there are well meaning Bible teachers who do not have the expertise to work in the Hebrew textual context and not the English textual context. If they ignore the Hebrew textual context and teach the three arks are related; their lesson might prove to be cool and interesting but a lesson promoting misinterpretation and error.
In this lesson we will show how a current so called Pre-Trib Rapture scholar ignores the Hebrew textual context and stays in the English ignoring the conceptual meaning of the Hebrew and how it is used in other verses, and to teach that Enoch was RAPTURED. This teacher goes on to say that even Elijah was raptured. This probably is a way this teacher wants to show that the Pre-Trip rapture is something even in the Torah and the Prophets. His point is that the Pre-Trib rapture was not something made up by a Scottish charismatic pastor in the late 19th century. So, he must force the Bible to support his point. The problem is this “well meaning” teacher is mistakenly leading us into error and does not even know they are misleading many into believing what the Bible does not say. The issue is not the Pre-Trib rapture, but how this well known so called scholar misuses the Hebrew to force the Bible to say something is does not to support his view of the veracity of the rapture.
Also, in this lesson we will put the Torah into its historical context in the 15th century B.C. We will see how those Hebrews coming out of Egypt were hearing explosive ideas as per their culture from God Himself through the pen of Moses. We will see that the Bible is an ancient source for true Women’s Liberation. In our culture today there are those women, who may even be Christian, who criticize the word of God as being anti-women or misogynistic. Once again this shows the major lack in how the church teaches the Bible; the church ignores the historical context of the Bible. If the church had people properly trained in seminaries and Bible institutions, we’d have a proper understanding that the Bible was written to the Hebrews 3400 years ago and was way ahead of its time then. It is as if the Bible, God’s Torah, was the first document that promoted Women’s Liberation in a Godly sense. In chapter 1 and 2 of Exodus the theme song for the key characters in these two chapters is the song sung by Helen Reddy, “I Am Woman.” Yes!! Shiphra, Puah, Yocheved, Miriam, and Pharaoh's daughter - they stand as those made in the image of God and not in the shadow of men and God shows that woman is one the same level as men. If you recall, man was made out of mud. But, in the Hebrew, woman was built and constructed almost as if there was a special design. As soon as SHE was created God looked and finally said that it was VERY GOOD and stopped creating. Way to go girls!!
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Jesus says He is the fist and the last. He says He is the beginning and the end. He uses Psalm 118:22-24 to teach this in the Temple Courts to His disciples and the Scribes, the Chief Priests, and the Pharisees who called themselves "the builders!" So, how is Jesus the first? How is He the beginning? This is the first of a number of way the Bible testifies of this truth.
To access this video simply go to the website at the link below ...
Link - WWW.LightofMenorah.org
... and at the home page find the You Tube icon on the right side of the left side. Click on the icon and it'll take you to the Light of Menorah Video Channel. You'll easily find episode 4 and all the other videos of the series, "Five Small Stones," and many more.
Hey! Who is this guy, John Ferret? Why should I listen to this guy? Check out his "credentials" at this link - click here for the teacher's background
This begins the actual Torah study. This lesson will focus on Gen. 1:1-5. We will address the question, "What is this light that God created on day one?" Is it related to Einstein's theory or what some Creation Science scholars call the Big Bang? Or is it something else? Might it be related to Yeshua the Messiah?
It says God created light on DAY one. Was it 24 hours? The Hebrew word translated into English as "day" is the word YOM. How long is a YOM? 24 hours? What is the picture God is painting?
Finally, we will study an amazing correlation between the 1st book of the Bible and the last, the book of Revelation. Genesis 1 deals with God creating a new heaven and a new earth. Then we read in Rev. 21:1 "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth passed away, and there is no longer any sea." Both deal with a new heaven and a new earth. Both books deal with a beginning. Is there more? Just wait and see!!
What is most important Bible verse? What Bible verse should be ranked number one in God's Word? Can you guess? A recognized scholar and a man devoted to the God of Abraham, Dennis Prager, has a cool audio lesson where Dennis brings up his view. He is a devout religious Jew but his Torah teaching is meant for both religious Jews of Judaism and religious Christians.
Here is the link - Dennis Prager - Prager University - The Most Important Verse in the Bible
Hey! Who is this guy, John Ferret? Why should I listen to this guy? Check out his "credentials" at this link - click here for the teacher's background
This lesson is in two parts. There is just simply too much material in these verses, Exod. 2:1-10, that I had to break it up into two sessions.
Our focus is on the birth of Moses and we will study five distinct perspectives on Moses’ birth. In this first part we will return to the date of 1446 B.C. and use it as the date Moses and the Israelites left Egypt after the first Passover meal and the night the first born throughout the land of Egypt were killed. As we continue with the Exodus Torah study I will provide archaeological support for the date of 1446 B.C. We will see clearly that this date that many of you have heard in sermons, Bible studies or in your own readings, is the date of the Exodus. You will be surprised where this date comes from and how real archaeology supports it.
We will also consider some amazing Jewish legends associated with the birth of Moses. In Jewish thought Moses was considered the first redeemer and he prefigures the final redeemer, the ultimate redeemer, the Messiah.
Also we will study the word “ark.” Noah built an ark and Moses was put in an ark (see the King James and the Jewish JPS versions of the Bible) or a basket in the New American Standard and ESV versions and the ark of the covenant. Some actually teach all three of these “arks” are related. Matter of fact there is a Jewish website that teaches Torah and I just happened to read their lead rabbi relate Noah’s ark, the basket or ark Moses was put in, and the ark of the covenant. We will see that they can’t be related at all. This is proven by Jewish sources and supported by a simple solution - Hebrew. We are dealing with the textual context of the Hebrew and NOT the textual context in English.
I mentioned in this lesson that I would provide some links to enhance your study. The first few links are videos showing suggested possibilities of what was the Star of Bethlehem found in Matt. 2:1-2. The next links are to articles on the Hyksos and the New Kingdom of Egypt that starts with the 18th Dynasty. These I am sure will provide some insights and enhance this lesson.
Link to the first video on the star – video 1 the Star of Bethlehem
Link to the second video on the star – video 2 of the Star of Bethlehem
Link to the article on the New Kingdom – click for historical article on Egypt and the 18th Dynasty and the Exodus
Link to the article on the Hyksos – click here for the historical article on the Hyksos
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In lesson 2 we continue to lay the foundation for this in depth study of the first five books of the Bible, commonly referred to as the TORAH (which does NOT mean LAW but TEACHING). In this lesson we ask if there are no dinosaurs in the Bible (and there is NO mention of them in the Bible in Hebrew) then does that help us grasp what the Torah is and is not? Here's a link to a Jewish scholar and his teaching on why dinosaurs are not mentioned in the bible - click here to hear Rabbi David Fohrman on dinosaurs and the Bible Moreover some Jewish and Christian scholars say that Gen. 1:21 is talking about large fish. It can't be large fish - the Hebrew taken to the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Old Testament) uses the phrase in Greek to describe the great evil dragon in the book of Revelation who is Satan. Satan is NOT a big fish. Once again how can translators so misinterpret the text of scripture and not check how the phrase in Gen. 1:21 is used throughout the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament that I like to title, "The Messianic Writings." And lastly, this session gets into the 5 purposes of this series, "The Gospel According to Moses." We approach this study with the focus of archaeology, history, geography, customs, culture, and the languages of the ancient Middle East. So what five things are we aiming at with this in mind?
Below is a link to those five purposes.
Link - click here for details on the four goals of this study
Who's John Ferret? What's his background? Why should I listen to this guy? Here's a link to learn a little about Rev. Ferret - click here for background of the teacher
Is the Bible credible? Can we trust it? Is the Exodus more than a story? In lesson 2 we begin an amazing journey to show the veracity, the trustworthiness, of the book of Exodus. As we continue in Exodus chapter one we will see that we are dealing with historic events – things that actually happened. One top of that we will begin to verify the exact year when Moses led the Hebrews out of Egypt. It’s all related to an ancient pagan calendar that the majority of archaeologists agree is accurate and can be used to date events.
Another aspect of this lesson is WOMEN. The Bible is the only ancient religious source that shows the real intention of God as it relates to men and women. God made men and women both equally in His image. Man is not above woman and woman is not above man - they are equal in God's eyes. The Bible is the only ancient source lifting up women to their equal and lofty place in God’s creation and plan. Men are the ones who put down women. The problem that messed things up was sin and turning away from God. Woman first and then her man.
Later we see that woman was “built” by God (that is the actual Hebrew – built assumes a specific design unlike man) to NOT be a “suitable helper.” That is what men did in translation. They did not translate the Hebrew correctly and thus put down women. The actual Hebrew is EZER KENEGDO עזר כנגדו or a strength in front or a strength alongside.
Gen. 2:18. The implication is man was incomplete without woman and visa versa. Woman is not man’s little helper. No way. She is the completeness of his strength and seemingly implies that physical strength is not sufficient. Man needs woman.
In this lesson we will see that the great pharaohs of Egypt are of no account as compared to two pagan Egyptian women. We will meet real heroines, we will meet strong, brave, bold women with guts. Not men. Women. The Bible cries out from 3400 years ago to teach us, men and women, what it means to be one of God's people.
In this lesson I mentioned I’d provide links to a few articles that relate to this lesson. The links are below.
The first link is to an article on Roman practice of infanticide and the catacombs of Praetextatus - click here for the article
The second link is another major article on the legality of ancient abortion, infanticide, and infant exposure in ancient Rome and Greece and the early Christian response - click here for the article
The third article is on 4 reasons why the early Messianic Christian assembly (church) grew so fast - click here for the article
Lastly is a paper I did on adoption in ancient Rome. It relates so well to this lesson. Link - click here for the paper
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
The Gospel According to Moses is a Torah study for Christians. The main goals of this study can be accessed at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/aczx1wpcwk730up/FOUR%20GOALS%20MAY%2016%202021.pdf?dl=0 The 1st session starts with Gen. 1:1-31 and addresses the concept of Torah - what is it? Is it the Law?
Who's John Ferret? What's his background? Why should I listen to this guy? Here's a link to learn a little about Rev. Ferret - click here for background of the teacher
The amazing confrontation between the one true and only God and Pharaoh is about to begin. The Lord is setting the stage for the second meeting of Moses and Aaron and Pharaoh. But this time Moses is to be God to Pharaoh. God does not say Moses will be “like a god,” but He says to Moses he will be God to Pharaoh. Wow!! Moses will be a in the flesh representation of the Lord, or Yahvay, the name of God. Makes sense, though. Pharaoh said he did not know of the God of the Hebrews. So, God would now, through Moses, use His power to show first, the Pharaoh is not a god and, second, to overwhelm Pharaoh and the might of Egypt to free all Israel. In a sense God would through a man, Moses, who is to act as His representative and defeat all the gods of Egypt. Thus this affirms in God’s own words that He is God alone and there is no other …
“Do not tremble and do not be afraid; have I not long since announced it to you and declared it? And you are My witnesses. Is there any God besides Me, or is there any other Rock? I know of none.” (Isa 44:8)
“I am the LORD, and there is no other; Besides Me there is no God. I will gird you, though you have not known Me.”(Isa 45:5)
A second aspect of all this relates to the fact that the Jewish people say that Moses is like the coming Messiah. Moreover, the coming Messiah will be like Moses. God promises this in Deut. 18:15 and 18:18. The Messiah will be a prophet like Moses. In Exod. 7:1 we get the connection between Jesus’ words in John 5:39 and see that if Moses is like the coming Messiah, and Moses is a prophet of Yahvay, Moses is to be as God to Pharaoh, and Moses is sent to Pharaoh and, thus, we too see that Yeshua, our Jesus, is also a prophet as Moses, and Yeshua is GOD not a representation, and as Moses was sent, so Yeshua was sent.
Here’s a part of a great article at the website, “You’ve Got Questions,” on Moses and Messiah.
Jesus is like Moses in several ways. Moses was both a prophet and a lawgiver, and Jesus is, too. Jesus was widely recognized as a prophet who spoke the Word of God (Matthew 21:46), and He gave commandments for His followers to obey (John 13:34; 15:12, 17; Galatians 6:2). Both Moses and Jesus mediated a covenant between God and men—Moses the Old Covenant (Exodus 34:27; Acts 7:44), and Jesus the New (Luke 22:20; Hebrews 9:15). Both Moses and Jesus were born during perilous times, and both narrowly escaped a king bent on murdering babies (Exodus 1:22 and Matthew 2:16–18). Both Moses and Jesus had a connection to Egypt (Exodus 2:1–4 and Matthew 2:13–14). Moses was the (adopted) son of a king (Exodus 2:10), and Jesus is the Son of the Most High (Luke 1:32). Moses spent forty years as a shepherd (Exodus 3:1), and Jesus is the Good Shepherd (John 10:11, 14). Both Moses and Jesus were known for their meekness (Numbers 12:3 and Matthew 11:29).
See the entire article at this link - https://www.gotquestions.org/Moses-and-Jesus.html
A great link to study this further is at the great website, Hebrew4Christains. Here’s the link to the correlation of Moses and the Messiah – https://www.hebrew4christians.com/Articles/Like_Moses/like_moses.html
Also, see the picture below. It is a visual representation of the connection between Moses and the Messiah and the Passover in Egypt in 1446 B.C. and the Passover in Jerusalem in 30 A.D.
But we are to be disciples of Jesus. This means we are to be like Him, to be like our rabbi. That’s what it meant in Jesus’ day. But, if Jesus is prefigured in Moses, aren’t we also, if we are disciples, if we are to be like Jesus? Yes. As Messiah, He was sent and so are we, just like Messiah and just like Moses. As Jesus is given the words to teach like Moses, we are as well. As Jesus is the Light of the World He tell us we too are to be the Light of the World. What do we conclude? That Moses is an example of a disciple of Adonai – one who is like the Lord. So too then we are to be disciples of the Messiah. Check out the article by Ray Vander Laan entitled, “Rabbi and Talmideem (disciples)” at this link. It is a great article on what it means to be a disciple in Jesus’ day and not what the church teaches today. Link - https://www.thattheworldmayknow.com/rabbi-and-talmidim
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - click here
New 5 minute vidcast - episode 3 in the video series, “Five Small Stones.” In Isa. 28:14-16 we read, "Therefore, hear the word of the LORD, O scoffers, who rule this people who are in Jerusalem, because you have said, 'We have made a covenant with death, and with Sheol we have made a pact. The overwhelming scourge will not reach us when it passes by, for we have made falsehood our refuge and we have concealed ourselves with deception' Therefore thus says the Lord GOD, 'Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a tested stone, A costly cornerstone for the foundation, firmly placed. He who believes in it will not be disturbed.'"
Years after Jesus' day this became a set of verses predicting the Messiah in Judaism. It might have been possible this was understood that way when Jesus was here. Matter of fact, Jesus seems to relate Himself to the cornerstone here in Isaiah and also in Psalm 118:22-24. Let's go see how the Lord connects Himself to the cornerstone and even, perhaps, the keystone, the final stone when building an arch.
Click here to access episode 3 and the 1st two videos as well - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvcIXun2BQDLrT9lFv4zupz1VmYwMBpwn
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - click here
A main purpose for this Bible study podcast series on Genesis (and the one on Exodus also) is to see how the five key books of the Hebrew scriptures in Jesus’ day testify of Him, Jesus, the Messiah. This is all related to the gospel of John chapter five. Jesus says that “all scripture testifies of Him.” (John 5:39) All they had then was the Old Testament, the Hebrew scriptures, and the key books of the Bible then was the Torah, Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy. In this lesson we focus on Gen. 21:14-34. In these verses is an amazing way the Torah testifies of the gospel, the New Covenant, Jesus, and our being “grafted in to the olive tree, the olive tree that is a picture of Israel.” We will again see that God inspired Moses to teach us the gospel, aspects of the Kingdom of Adonai, the amazing redemption plan of the Lord, and to "see" King Jesus, the Messiah, the one who comes to complete what the Torah could not do (Acts 13:38-39). We will then see that the Torah written by Moses is nothing more than THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO MOSES. But, in order to “see” Jesus in Gen. 21:14-34 we need to understand geography and the plants of the Bible. We need to study the Tamarisk tree. Once we do we can finally get at the intended meaning of what Adonai is trying to get us to know, to understand.
In this lesson I mentioned I’d provide some pictures of two plants. The first is the Tamarisk tree. You can see that below.
The second plant is the “broom tree” called the rotem in Hebrew. It is likely this is the bush that Hagar and Ishmael were under in the shade. It is a large bush that provides just enough shade for one person. It is likely the bush that Elijah was laying under when he escaped from Ahab and Jezebel. See the rotem below.
I also am linking you to lesson 34 in this series. Hagar is the first person in the Torah to encounter the ANGEL OF THE LORD. It happens in chapter 21 and back in 16. In lesson 34 I show that the Torah, the very words of God, PROVE unequivocally that the ANGEL OF THE LORD is God, a manifestation of the Lord Himself. It is one of the “faces” of the Lord so that He can make Himself visible to us and we will not die. Here’s the link to lesson 34 - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/the-gospel-according-to-moses-genesis-lesson-34-gen-161-16/
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - click here
We continue with Exod. 6:6-8. These verses are connected by the Sages/Rabbis of Judaism to four cups of the Passover Seder. In the previous lesson, lesson 17, we also explored the debate the sages/rabbis had whether there should be four or five cups. On top of that all this seemed to be related to the end times! And we explored the possibility that what is known as the "rapture" is nothing more than the "ingathering" of the elect of God. In Paul's day the INGATHERING was when the dead will rise first and along with those who are alive will be taken up and brought to Israel at the time of the coming of Messiah. In 1 Thess 4:16-17 ...
For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. (1Th 4:16-17)
So the "rapture" is for all of us "grafted in to the olive tree of Israel" and us who are "joint heirs" with the covenants and promises of God to be taken up and "gathered" to Israel and to then to participate in the MARRIAGE FEAST OF THE LAMB and to be with our "husband" forever in Jerusalem. This fits the rabbinic ideas of the ingathering of the elect. Even Jesus uses the word of gathering us in. See below ...
"But immediately after the tribulation of those days THE SUN WILL BE DARKENED, AND THE MOON WILL NOT GIVE ITS LIGHT, AND THE STARS WILL FALL from the sky, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. "And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the SON OF MAN COMING ON THE CLOUDS OF THE SKY with power and great glory. "And He will send forth His angels with A GREAT TRUMPET and THEY WILL GATHER TOGETHER His elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other. (Mat 24:29-31)
Jesus is God and God said we would be GATHERED. Any Jew then hearing these words knew it meant the INGATHERING as promised again and again in the Hebrew scriptures. When Paul wrote 1 Thessalonians all He had was the Hebrew Scriptures, the Old Testament. So who do you believe, some pastor teaching the "rapture" with no background in the Hebrew culture or the historical context of the Bible, or GOD? The choice seems clear.
In this session we continue studying the cups of Passover. It is possible that the idea of the 5th cup for the Passover meal, today called the Seder, was known in Jesus' day. What is amazing is that the idea of the 5th cup seems to be related also to the cup of wrath that all nations will drink in the end times ...
For thus the LORD, the God of Israel, says to me, "Take this cup of the wine of wrath from My hand and cause all the nations to whom I send you to drink it. "They will drink and stagger and go mad because of the sword that I will send among them." Then I took the cup from the LORD'S hand and made all the nations to whom the LORD sent me drink it: Jerusalem and the cities of Judah and its kings and its princes, to make them a ruin, a horror, a hissing and a curse, as it is this day; (Jer 25:15-18)
And it seems to be related to Jesus and the events in the Gat Sheminim - the olive press where He went to pray after His Passover meal. I mentioned in this podcast that Jesus went to an olive press and not the garden of Gethsemane. You can not find any records that there was a place called the garden of Gethsemane and neither is the phrase "garden of Gethsemane," those exact words, found in the Bible. I did a video on this and here's the link so you can study this further - LINK - click here to watch the 11 minute video Also, here is an amazing article from :Biblical Archaeolgy REview" from 1995 of the possible actual "cave" that Jesus visited to pray that was an olive press - LINK - click here for the article
The Passover meal of the Messiah, called the Last Supper traditionally, was even more profound. Those disciples of Jesus knew the meaning of the four cups of wine and the verse in Torah they represented. They knew of the new covenant at Sinai that Israel entered into with the Lord at the Mountain of God (Exod. 3:1) and it was as if God became their "husband" and Israel was His "bride." But, they also knew that the Mountain of God moved to Jerusalem (Isa. 2:1-3) and Jesus takes a cup, one of the cups in the Passover meal, and offers it to His talmideem (disciples), as a sign of a New Covenant they can enter at the Mountain of God. When Jesus lifted up the cup He was giving us an AMAZING PROPOSAL to be His bride and He our Bridegroom - SINAI REPEATED!!
In this podcast I mentioned other links I would provide. See these below.
Link - article on Passover and the feast of Unleavened Bread as practiced in Jesus' day and that all these events may have occurred in 30 A.D. and not 33 A.D. - click here for the article
Link - to Hayyim Schauss' book, "The Jewish Festivals" at Amazon - click here to access this resource
Link - Ray Vander Laan's DVD and study book entitled "The Path to the Cross" - click here for the DVD and the book
Link - Dennis Prager's audio Torah study - an extremely valuable resource - even better than his books - click here for this important resource
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
This is the last lesson in the podcast series on the Lord's Prayer (in Hebrew - HaTehfeelah Adonai) which He gave to us, His disciples, and we can now call it, HaTehfeelah Talmidim, the Prayer of the Disciples. We will focus on Matt.6:13 and once again return to the 1st century A.D., the days of Yeshua HaMashiach, Jesus the Messiah (the Christ), and try and hear what His disciples heard. We will try and understand what they understood. We will study to see like they did.
The main focus of the lesson will be on the beginning phrase in Matt. 6:13, "and lead us not into temptation ..." (NASB). For us the English word the translators use "temptation" seems to relate only to that which might entice us to sin or evil. Temptation to us seems to focus on the evil desire to commit sin and go against Adonai, the Lord. However, the translators use this word in many places in the Bible to mean testing or trials or difficulties. So, what's going on in Matt. 6:13? Does it mean that God may come to us to lead us into situations where He knows we will be tempted to commit sin, to do evil? Or, are the translators using it as it relates with a different concept?
Here are the links I mentioned in the audio plus more.
Link to the complete Didache (pronounced Dida Key) - click here for the Didache translated from the Greek
Link to a number of great articles on the Hebrew concept of prayer from En Gedi Resource Center - click here for articles on the Lord's prayer and much more
Link to Shmuel Safrai's article on the spoken languages in Jesus' day at the Jerusalem School of the Synoptic Gospels - click here for the article (might require you be a member)
Link to a translation of the Lord's Prayer the way it may have been read in Hebrew - click here for a possible translation of the Lord's Prayer
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
NEW 5 MINUTE VIDEO - small Bible lesson so that it may have a BIG effect.
If someone says to you that TODAY is the day the Lord has made, they are misquoting the Bible. They are taking a very key verse and taking it out of context. They are taking an awesome concept of the Lord and trivializing it. So many Christians do this today and it is sad they treat the Bible as bunch of statements you can use any way you want. So, check out the new 5 minute video in the new series FIVE SMALL STONES. Click on the link and "slide down" till you find the picture below. Listen to the very short instructional audio to access the new video. EASY!!
I am doing these podcasts on the first five books of the Bible, sometimes called the Torah, for Christians for deeply personal reasons. Some of these are 1) I am having a ton of fun doing them and 2) the Lord has given me a cool hobby for a man age 73 and 3) and I am learning so much as I study the Bible in its historical context and 4) I put them out there on the internet for any to hear and listen and perhaps, be touched by the Lord (not me!) to walk in a deeper way on the Straight Path the Good Shepherd leads us on as in Psalm 23. We read in English that they are the Paths of Righteousness. In Hebrew the word used means straight, the Straight Paths. In Hebrew this is a word that is interpreted a righteousness. See the picture below of what David was talking about – the straight paths of the sheep following their shepherd.
Here's a super short video by Ray Vander Laan - click here for the 4 minute video
Thus, for me, I do not worry about success – how many listeners do I have or the popularity of the Light of Menorah podcasts or vidcasts. I am already a success in that the Lord seemingly has led me to do this work and I obey and try to do it the best I can so He is honored by the quality I try to put in this work. That’s it. I then hope and trust that as I put them out there the Lord may see fit to use them to reach the one or two or ten people He is after to become disciples of Rabbi Jesus or to become stronger and more passionate in their walk with the Lord.
This lesson is a prime example. I always wondered how could the Lord approve of Sarah’s actions by kicking out Hagar and Ishmael? From my 21st perspective it made no sense. Hagar and Ishmael left and nearly died of thirst. Huh? Why? All because Ishmael was “mocking” his younger brother, Isaac?
I thank the Lord for giving me the chance to earn a masters degree in Bible history. This has led me to study the Bible in its historical perspective focusing in on the archaeology, history, geography, customs, culture, and even the languages of the ancient Middle East. My profs helped me get connected to credible scholars and teachers who are so unlike the typical pastor who has never been trained in Biblical Greek, Hebrew or in the historical and ancient cultural context of the Bible. In this lesson those scholars, those brilliant archaeologists, historians, both Jew and Gentile, have helped me see a realistic alternative view of these events. Abraham and Sarah are Chaldean. They are NOT Hebrews! So, are there aspects of the ancient Chaldean culture of ancient Babylon that contribute to our understanding of Sarah kicking out Hagar and Ismael? Yes. Wait till you see.
So, come and join me and see the results of the "hobby" (the works He has given me as per Eph. 2:8-10) the Lord has given this old guy. It is a hobby based upon John 8:31-32. My life is now dedicated to studying and integrating God’s word totally so that it becomes my foundation for life so that I will know the truth, the truth that sets me and you free.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
This lesson and the next will be awesome. Our focus will be on Exod. 6:1-8. It will unbelievable where this takes us. We will be dealing with the reason why there are four cups of wine in the Passover meal called the Seder (Hebrew for order). We will also deal with the 5th cup. Yes! There is a debate among the rabbis in the Talmud about whether there should be four or five cups. Shown below are links to articles from Jewish websites to show that this debate comes from the rabbis and it led to some amazing results. Check them out …
Sefaria (Jewish site to access ancient Jewish literature like the Mishnah, the Midrasheem, the Babylonian Talmud, the Jerusalem Talmud, and the rest) - https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/31880?lang=bi
Aish (Jewish website – aish means “fire”) - https://www.aish.com/tp/i/moha/81091867.html
Gemara (Jewish site focusing on the study of the Hebrew scriptures in their historical and contextual context) - https://thegemara.com/five-cups-of-wine-at-the-seder/index.html
The 5th cup is connected to the text in Exod. 6:8 when we read, “I will bring you to the land which I swore to give to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and I will give it to you for a possession; I am the LORD." (Exo 6:8) But, when will Israel possess the land with the borders God promised? They don’t now. Today Israel does not come close to holding the territory God promised and about half of all Jews do not live in Israel. We will see that after the battle against Gog of Magog in Ezekiel 38 and 39 that the first thing that must happen is that ALL Israel must be INGATHERED; they are to be gathered again in Israel never again to leave and there will be NO Jewish people remaining anywhere in the world except in the borders of Israel that God gave them. You can read this yourself in Ezekiel 39. All this happens after Elijah comes before the great day of the Lord when Messiah comes (Yeshua returns!). Interestingly the 5th cup is called the “Elijah Cup” by the rabbis.
The last concept we will discuss is what is popularly known as the “rapture.” As a Bible historian I was often concerned that most, if not all Christian teachers of the end times and the rapture, are so disconnected from our Jewish roots, the Bible in its historical context, and an understanding that there was NO New Testament in 50 A.D., the date estimated when Paul was in Thessalonica. I actually dismissed the “rapture” and thought it was only a view, an opinion, a unique man made interpretation. I was one who hoped it'd be true. It just didn't stand the test of scholarly examination. There were too many holes and not enough substance. However, I am beginning to look at the “rapture” perhaps the way Paul might have known it. We will take 1 Thess. 4:16-17 and study these verses in their historical context and in the context of that ancient Jewish culture. Perhaps there is a “rapture.” Perhaps the modern Christian end times gurus have it partially right. Perhaps Paul is teaching those Gentile believers in Thessalonica about something very Jewish based upon the Hebrew scriptures. Those Gentiles had no Bible, had no scripture, until they became “God Fearers” and attended the synagogue in Thessalonica. Perhaps there is a connection between the “rapture” and the ingathering of Israel; the ingathering of elect of the Lord that might be called, “The Jewish Rapture.”
Shown below are links to some interesting articles that will show that this is NOT made up by me, not my opinion. It is a concept that might prove to be something to consider. Perhaps we will be part of the INGATHERING of Israel since it says we’ve been grafted into the olive tree, Israel, and are joint heirs in the promises. Perhaps.
The Torah and the Rapture - https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/0da55621/files/uploaded/4ZW5Bbv3Tz2gNtsgeqkL_The%2520Torah%2520and%2520the%2520Rapture.pdf
1 Thess. 4:16-17 from a Rabbinic Perspective - https://hcommons.org/deposits/objects/hc:34782/datastreams/CONTENT/content
The Jewish Understanding of the Rapture - https://torahlifeministry.com/teachings/articles/29-the-rapture/109-the-jewish-understanding-of-the-rapture.html
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Abraham and Sarah now travel to the area of Gerar in southwestern Israel. You can see where this is in the map below. It is probably named this after the wadi Gerar that flows east into the sea. It is a wadi, a dry river bed in that it only has water during the rainy season in Israel. This would be roughly November through March.
We immediately encounter some issues. One is the king Abimelech. Is he a Philistine? It is an interesting question with no complete final answer. Consider …
Gen_26:1. Philistines in Palestine. Large numbers of Philistines entered Canaan after the invasion of the Sea Peoples (1200 B.C.) broke Egyptian control over the area. In this context they are mentioned in the records of Ramses III (1182-1151 B.C.). They established a pentapolis of five major city-states (Gaza, Gath, Ashdod, Ekron, Ashkelon) along the southern coastal plain and quickly gained political control over nearby regions as well (Jdg_15:11). Their mention in Genesis may reflect an earlier group that settled in Canaan prior to 1200 B.C., or it may be an anachronism based on their presence in the Gerar region in later periods (see Gen_21:32), earlier people of the vicinity being referred to by the name known to later readers. Archaeological evidence of their presence is found in the introduction of new pottery types, grave goods (such as the sarcophagi with human features) and new architectural designs. (The IVP Bible Background Commentary: Old Testament. Copyright © 2000 by John H. Walton, Victor H. Matthews and Mark W. Chavalas).
However, that’s not the only question. Sarah was 90 when she gives birth to Isaac and she dies when she is 127. This means Isaac is 37 years old or more when he marries Rebekah. In Gen. 26:1 Isaac encounters Abimelech. Is this the same guy his dad encountered in Gen. 20:1? It is nearly 40 years later. Consider …
... and Isaac went unto Abimelech king of the Philistines, unto Gerar; where his father Abraham had sojourned before he was born; and therefore the present king of this place can scarce be thought to be the same Abimelech that was king of it in Abraham's time; but it is highly probable that this Abimelech was the son of the former king, and that this was a common name to the kings of Gerar or the Philistines, as Pharaoh was to the kings of Egypt. Isaac came to this place from Lahairoi, where he had dwelt many years, see Gen_24:62; which was at or near Beersheba, and was about eight miles from Gerar. (“John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible.” Dr. John Gill (1690-1771)
We will explore this further in the lesson.
Once again we are confronted with a critical theological question. The question is can one lie to save a life or to prevent something bad or evil or not? In the Ten Commandments we say God commanded us not to lie. Sorry. He never said that in the Ten Commandments. He said ...
לא תענה ברעך עד שׁקר
Lo Ta'ahneh VayReckaka Ed Shaker
Not Testify to Your Neighbor Falsely
This is legal stuff meaning in court or in any legal proceeding you are not to testify with false statements against your neighbor. This a commandment as related to legal proceedings. (See the "Jerusalem Publication Society Torah Commentary Exodus," by Nahum Sarna, 1991). The actual commandment of God not to lie is found in Lev. 19:11 - "You shall not steal, nor deal falsely, nor lie to one another." So, we need to revise things gang! We need 11 commandments to cover all the bases!
So, do not lie. Some teach that no matter what you must not lie. In a TV program there were three religious men, an orthodox rabbi, a protestant pastor and the priest. The moderator, Dennis Prager, set up a situation to have the rabbi and pastor and priest comment on. The situation was that a woman was being chased by a sadistic rapist in a lonely park. She runs past you and asks you to help her. She hides and thus you have a choice when the evil rapist finally reaches you. You can lie and not tell him where she is hiding or you can not lie and thus put her in danger and perhaps serious injury and death. The pastor and priest said you can not lie and must tell the truth. They said you can tell the truth in such a way that perhaps will not give up her hiding place. The rabbi, however, said he'd lie through his teeth to save her and protect this innocent women. ("Torah Commentary Exodus," MP3 file, Dennis Prager, Part 14 of 57. This is part of Dennis Prager's teaching series on the Torah available at the website store at https://pragerstore.com/product-category/the-torah/complete-torah).
So, we see a dilemma. What would you do? We are not to lie according to the opinion of Christian theologians. Godly rabbis see it quite differently. But, in this lesson we find that Abraham lies. Sarah lies. And yet God does not discipline them. Moreover Abraham and Sarah do it twice! Then later Isaac and Rebecca. They are not punished. God nevers say BOO to them. What's going on? Who is right? The rabbi says he'd lie to save her. The Christians say no, we can't lie. God is silent when Abraham and Isaac lie through their teeth. On top of that in Jesus' day the rabbis said that ALL LAWS in the Torah do not need to be kept in order to save a life. Consider ...
Pikuach nefesh (Hebrew: פקוח נפש 'watching over a soul') is the principle in Jewish law that the preservation of human life overrides virtually any other religious rule. When the life of a specific person is in danger, almost any negative commandment of the Torah becomes inapplicable. (See ... www.myjewishlearning.com/article/pikuach-nefesh-the-overriding-jewish-value-of-human-life/)
What would you do?
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In part 1 we learned that the Kingdom of God was a concept in Second Temple Judaism, the religion of Jesus' day, that was understood by the Jewish people. We saw that Moses states that God will reign forever and ever (Exod. 15:18). Thus, if God reigns, He is king. If God is King then He has a Kingdom. But, His Kingdom does not have a territory or borders or a palace or castle. In Jesus' day the Kingdom of God meant only that God rules and reigns over His creation, the heavens and the earth, the universe. It is like what the Jewish people say in their daily blessings that Adonai is King of the Universe. Here's the blessing over bread ...
בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה׳ אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם הַמּוֹצִיא לֶחֶם מִן הָאָרֶץ
Baruch ata Adonai Eloheinu melech ha’olam hamotzi lechem min ha’aretz.
Blessed are you, Lord our God, KING of the universe who brings forth bread from the earth.
So, in the first century A.D. in Israel, God's Kingdom was and is and will always be. So, as we continue to study the phrase in Matt. 6:10, "Your Kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven," we ask then if His Kingdom was and is and will always be why are we praying that His Kingdom should come? Are we missing something? Again, we are. We are disconnected from how the disciples of Jesus understood the Kingdom of God 2000 years ago when Jesus taught this prayer. We need again to reconnect to those days to expand our understanding of the Lord's Prayer and what it all means to them and to us today.
I mentioned I would link several articles that are examples of my resources that I have accessed to develop these podcasts on the Lord's Prayer and on the Kingdom of the Lord. These links are shown below. The links that have a "*" before them will take you to the website www.JerusalemPerspective.com
which has an annual fee to access the entire article and the remaining 100's of articles available from highly credible Christian and Jewish scholars. I highly recommend this website for any of you who are serious students of the Bible. This is one resource that is worth paying the annual fee for real scholarship and study.
- The Kingdom of God: God’s Power Among Believers. Robert L. Lindsey
https://www.jerusalemperspective.com/2445/
- Literary Languages in the Time of Jesus. Shmuel Safrai
https://www.jerusalemperspective.com/2563/
- Jesus and the Oral Torah: The Unutterable Name of God. David Biven.
https://www.jerusalemperspective.com/2087/
- The Lord's Prayer. David Biven.
https://www.jerusalemperspective.com/769/
- The Lord’s Prayer 1: Introduction. Brad Young. (Note: this is part 1 of 10)
https://www.jerusalemperspective.com/2229/
The following articles are accessed for free at the amazing website www.EnGediResourceCenter.org
including articles by Lois Tverberg on the Lord's Prayer and the Kingdom of God.
Articles on the Lord's Prayer - https://engediresourcecenter.com/tag/lords-prayer/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
This is a new vidcast (video) series from Light of Menorah (link below). It is a 5 minute Bible lesson of the Bible in it historical context. Each small stone represents one minute that, God willing, the Ruach HaKodesh, the Holy Spirit, can use to teach us to be true disciples (talmideem in Hebrew) of Adonai Yeshua to obey Him in John 8:31-32.
"If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free." (Joh 8:31-32)
He says to integrate our lives in His word to know the truth, the truth that sets us free, so we may live our lives as the Light of the World as Jesus told us we are to be in our days.
"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven." (Mat 5:14-16)
LINK TO SEE THE LESSON - https://youtu.be/8bolCKsqNqc
Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Lot’s daughters think there are no people left on earth after the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. They say this exactly …
Then the firstborn said to the younger, "Our father is old, and there is not a man on earth to come in to us after the manner of the earth. "Come, let us make our father drink wine, and let us lie with him that we may preserve our family through our father." (Gen 19:31-32)
The Hebrew is precise. The first born girl said no man left on the earth implying anywhere on the globe! Why did she think this? The younger sister surely agreed with her older sister. We don’t get it since we don’t understand the geography of the area. If you knew the area of the Dead Sea these verses become crystal clear. Here some links to check out on pictures of this area. Check it out. You’ll see that the sisters were in a deep, deep valley almost 1 mile below sea level.
Link to Wikimedia views of the Dead Sea from the high rock bluff known as Masada – https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Views_of_the_Dead_Sea_from_Masada
Link to Wikimedia views of the mountains surrounding the Dead Sea – https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Mountain_around_Dead_Sea
Link to Wikimedia views of the caves near Qumran where many of the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered – https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Caves_of_Qumran
A second issue is in this lesson we see the concept of midah keneged midah (mee-dah kah-NEG-ed mee-dah), or measure for measure. It can be defined as ...
"The rabbis noticed a pattern throughout the Bible they read—that the consequences of a sin often fit the crime, measure for measure." (See Lois Tverberg's article on "Measure for Measure" at this link - https://ourrabbijesus.com/articles/jesus-jewish-logic-measure-for-measure/
How is "measure for measure" seen in these events between Lot and his daughters? How might this relate to us in the 21st century?
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
In this session I brought up the fact that the Hebrews had assimilated into the Egyptian culture after Joseph. It must've happened slowly but surely and it is easy to understand the lure and the attraction of the world's richest and most powerful kingdom on earth at the time, Egypt. Who would want to go back to Canaan and the tough conditions of life back home?
Here's the links to lesson 4 parts 1 & 2 in this podcast Torah Bible study series. These previous lessons (part 2 only) show that the Bible text suggests they assimilated if you know the Hebrew and not the English.
Link - lesson 4 part 1
Link - lesson 4 part 2
Another thing I brought was that even today in Egypt they still make mud bricks they way they did in Egypt 3400 years ago. Imagine. When I was in Egypt in 2014 and 2017 I actually made mud bricks at a mud brick facility. That's me on the west side of the Nile near Luxor making mud bricks.
It was not easy work. And with all the traveling Robin and I did up and down the Nile, we saw many mud brick buildings, some homes and other were businesses. It was totally cool. Below please find a link to an awesome short video on making mud bricks in Egypt today. We will meet Muhammed at his mud brick facility.
Link - click here for the video of making mud bricks in Egypt today
In this lesson we return to Exodus 5. We will start focusing our study on verse one. I was so so amazed as to how much was n this verse. I was helped by excellent Jewish Torah/Hebrew scholars. One thing as Christians we are never taught how to study the Bible. Exod. 5:1 is a classic example of NOT putting the text into its textual context. Once we do in this example we will find that Moses did not do what God had previously ordered. I mean Moses did NOT one thing God commanded. On top of that Moses gets so angry with the Lord at the end of the chapter Moses is implying that God did EVIL just like Pharaoh. It's as if Moses is say God and Pharaoh are both alike! One top of that God doesn't punish Moses for this criticism.
This is an amazing chapter of the Torah. One thing it shows is that the two fundamental aspects of the Bible is to love God and love your neighbor. You can't have one without the other. Matter of fact a Jewish scholar brings this up as we study the last few verses of the chapter. He was so fired up about the fact that the goal of Torah is to love God and love your neighbor. Here's the two fundamental Torah laws of Judaism ...
"Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD is one! You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might." (Deu 6:4-5)
"You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the sons of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself; I am the LORD." (Lev 19:18)
This Jewish scholar said this is the GOAL of Torah. GOAL? One strives to reach a goal. Jesus takes this and brings it up a notch. You remember when you read ...
"Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?" And He said to him, " 'YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.' "This is the great and foremost commandment. "The second is like it, 'YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.' "On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets." (Mat 22:36-40)
These aren't goals to strive for. These are laws to obey. If we are true disciples of Adonai Yeshua then we will hear His word and do it like when He said ...
"If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." (Joh 14:15)
If we love Jesus we will not strive to reach the goal of loving God and loving our neighbor. NO!! WE will obey the Lord and DO HIS LAWS! We don't strive to reach a goal to show our love to the Lord we obey His commandments. Jesus shows He never left 2nd Temple Judaism but is in full agreement with 2nd Temple Judaism.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
This is part 2 of the Lord's Prayer series as we focus on the phrase, "hallowed be Your name." In this episode we turn to the Ten Commandments and to commandment #3 (commandment 2 if you are a Catholic) or "You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not leave him unpunished who takes His name in vain." How is this related to us today? If we reconnect to the Hebrew and the Jewish culture of the 2nd Temple Period, the days of Jesus, it is connected to being a true disciple of Yeshua, but how? How is this related to the Lord's Prayer and "hallowing?"
There are many links I mention in this podcast. They are all listed below. At this time I want to recognize these scholars and for their amazing credible Bible resources to help us reconnect to the Jewish culture of Jesus' day so we can have our understanding expanded and enhanced. These amazing scholars are Lois Tverberg, Dennis Prager, Joseph Shulam, Dr. Brad Young, and David Biven. This is just a few of the many scholars and teachers I have learned from. I just needed to make sure I gave them the credit and recognition for most of what I present. I don't teach my own opinion and try to teach with the backup of such great scholars as these.
Link - Lois Tverberg' article, "What Does It Mean to Hallow God's Name? - click here for Lois' article
Link - Lois Tverberg's website - https://ourrabbijesus.com/
Link - Dennis Prager's video "Misusing God's Name" - click here for Dennis' video
Link to Dennis' website and in the "store" you will find his 25 years of Torah lessons on a flash drive - click here for Dennis' website
Link to Joseph Shulam's ministry website - this is a great learning resource - https://netivyah.org/
Check out the free "journals" you can access at Netivyah - https://netivyah.org/library/
Link to David Biven's awesome article on the Lord's prayer found at Jerusalem Perspective - https://www.jerusalemperspective.com/769/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Is Lot a righteous man? With all that we studied in recent lessons, it sure doesn’t seem so. But, one thing for sure, we can’t find evidence that Lot in some way sinned. The Bible is silent. Lot seems to have made some poor choices. First, he chooses to live in Sodom and Gomorrah and he must’ve known these were places where some bad stuff was going on. Second, he becomes involved in the evil culture by being accepted as a city leader, elder, or official since we found Lot sitting in the gate in lesson 39. Now, there is no sin in living in a place like Sodom. There is no sin in being on a city committee or part of the elite class. The Torah doesn’t say that Lot sinned. The orthodox rabbinic view is that Lot is righteous but his character was not at the level of his uncle Abraham. Hmmm, I think I can agree with that but I still have trouble with Lot being considered righteous as Peter writes in 2 Pet. 2:7-9. Consider …
and if He rescued righteous Lot, oppressed by the sensual conduct of unprincipled men (for by what he saw and heard that righteous man, while living among them, felt his righteous soul tormented day after day by their lawless deeds), then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from temptation, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment for the day of judgment, (2Pe 2:7-9)
This will require further study and we must go beyond simple rabbinic opinion which offers no justification for Lot being righteous. Let's bring our brain to the Bible.
Another issue we will deal with is Lot’s daughters. After the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah they think there are no men left on the face of the earth. They say this exactly …
Then the firstborn said to the younger, "Our father is old, and there is not a man on earth to come in to us after the manner of the earth. "Come, let us make our father drink wine, and let us lie with him that we may preserve our family through our father." (Gen 19:31-32)
The Hebrew is precise. The first born girl said no man left on the earth implying anywhere on the globe! Why did she think this? The younger sister surely agreed with her older sister. We don’t get it since we don’t understand the geography of the area. If you knew the area of the Dead Sea these verses become crystal clear. Here some links to check out on pictures of this area. Check it out. You’ll see that the sisters were in a deep, deep valley almost 1 mile below sea level.
Link to Wikimedia views of the Dead Sea from the high rock bluff known as Masada – click here to view
Link to Wikimedia views of the mountains surrounding the Dead Sea – click here to view
Link to Wikimedia views of the caves near Qumran where many of the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered – click here to view
So, once again, if you lived in David’s day or Hezekiah, all this was easy to understand. But for us we don’t get it. It’s not our land, our culture, and we are not taught the geography of the Bible. We are not taught the Bible in its historical context with a focus on the archaeology, history, geography, customs, culture, and the languages of the ancient Middle East.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
When was the last time you hallowed? Is it allowed in your church? Where you work? Did you learn how to hallow in Sunday school? Why aren't more 21st century Christians hallowing? But, perhaps they are!
In the 2nd Temple Period, the first century A.D. or Jesus' day, Jesus' talmideem, Hebrew for disciples, knew exactly how to hallow! Jesus' fellow rabbis helped all know how to hallow the name of Adonai. So when Jesus teaches His talmideem HaTehfeelah Adonai, the Lord's Prayer, and gives it to them so it becomes, HaTehfeelah Talmideem, the Prayer of the Disciples, the disciples understand clearly what all this means. It was part of their culture and probably taught in their בֵּית סֵפֶר - pronounced Bait Sefer, elementary school, so the Jewish kids right from the get go would know how to "hallow the name of Adonai."
Now it's our turn - let's learn what they did. Let's try and understand how they understood so that HaTehfeelah Talmideem, the Prayer of the Disicples, becomes that much more meaningful for us today.
Once again there are links I bring up in the podcast. See below for the links for this lesson.
Link - Lois Tverberg' article, "What Does It Mean to Hallow God's Name? - click here for Lois' article
Link - Lois Tverberg's website - https://ourrabbijesus.com/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
This is lesson 15 in the Bible study series, "The Gospel According to Moses - Exodus." You need to access the link below for this lesson since it is a video - I want you to SEE the archaeology and geography that shows that the exodus was a real historical event happening in the 15th century B.C. In this video we will study the archaeological discoveries that even give us the likely location of the palace of the Pharaoh where the events took place we are so familiar with.
Link to video lesson 15 - https://youtu.be/F_6Z9gObhsc
In the video lesson I refer back to lesson 5 parts 1 & 2 of this Bible study series. I highly recommend you listen to these podcasts before continuing on in this series.
Links to Lesson 5 parts 1 and 2 of the series, "The Gospel According to Moses - Exodus," on the dating of the Exodus and more -
Part 1 - click here for part 1
Part 2 - click here for part 2
Many links are provided for further study - check them out below. These are the links to excellent and credible resources for you for further study into the archaeology that proves the Exodus, proves the Bible, and shows us the veracity of the very words of God, the Bible.
In the video lesson I referred to articles and websites and other amazing scholarly videos that add to and enhance what I taught in this video. Here's the links ...
Link to Dr. Bryant Wood's (highly credible and renowned Bible archaeologist of the Associates for Biblical Research) article on the royal precinct of Avaris at Tel el Dab'a - https://biblearchaeology.org/research/chronological-categories/sojourn-of-israel-in-egypt/2249-the-royal-precinct-at-rameses
Link to Dr. Manfred Bietak's (considered one the five best archaeologists of the 20th century by Biblical Archaeology Review) report on the excavations at Tel el Dab'a - https://www.academia.edu/10074198/_Report_on_the_Excavations_of_a_Hyksos_Palace_at_Tell_el_Dabca_Avaris_23rd_of_August_15th_of_November_2011_Egypt_and_the_Levant_22_23_2012_13_18_52
Links to four videos from the Associates for Biblical Research discussing the REAL evidence and not the PATTERNS of evidence that show the high probability that Exodus was a real event in the 15th century B.C. These are part of the video series from the Associates for Biblical Research called ,"Digging for Truth." They are free and the scholars are all experts and scholars in archaeology and all are evangelical Bible believing Christians. The four videos feature Dr. Scott Stripling presenting the real evidence of the date of the Exodus and the archaeology of the events and places. Here's the links ...
Video 1 - click here for video 1 on the date of Exodus
Video 2 - click here for video 2 on the date of Exodus
Video 3 - click here for video 3 on the archaeology of the Exodus
Video 4 - click here for video 4 on the archaeology of the Exodus
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
We continue with the words of the Lord's Prayer, HaTehfeelah Adonai. Our focus is now on the words, "...who is in heaven." This begs the question where does God live? Where is His abode, where does He dwell 24/7? Isn't heaven the sky above and space with the moon and sun and planets and galaxies? If so does God live out there behind a nebula or a galaxy hidden from our eyes? Or, does the English language cause some issues? We have put the Lord's Prayer into its historical context and we see that it was first taught in Hebrew to a specific group of people, the religious Jewish disciples, and in a specific culture and time; He taught it sometime between 24-30 A.D. to those who practiced Second Temple Judaism and who only had the Old Testament, the Hebrew scriptures, as their only Bible. So, let's jump in. Let's see what they knew and understood in Hebrew. Let's find out where God lives and dwells 24/7.
Once again here's links I mentioned in the lesson. Check them out as they hopefully will add and enrich your study of HaTehfeelah Adonai, the Lord's Prayer which He gave to us, His disciples, and we can now call it, HaTehfeelah Talmidim, the Prayer of the Disciples.
Link 1 - click here for the video "Where is the Garden of Gethsemane?"
Link 2a - Dr. Brad Young's videos on the Hebrew background of the Lord's prayer - click here for his video series
Link 2b - Dr. Brad Young's scholarly work on the Jewish background of the Lord's prayer - click here to access all his books in the bookstore
Link 2c - Dr. Brad Young's article on the Lord's prayer at "Jerusalem Perspective" - click here for part 1 of this 10 part series
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
OK, Lot, Abraham’s nephew. He’s got to be an OK guy, right? I mean look at his uncle. Abraham! I mean come on. But, right from the get go we see that theirs is something wrong with Lot. This becomes clear when Lot’s shepherds and herdsmen started arguing with the shepherds and herdsmen of his uncle. Lot didn’t stop it as he was supposed to. We are beginning to see that in that culture near 4000 years ago, Lot was supposed to support his uncle and Abraham’s house 100%. For more on this check out lesson 29 – link = https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-5ynaz-f97c87 Make sure if you listen to lesson 29 before clicking to listen first click on “view more” and read the intro to the lesson. If not, you will miss lots of info and links for further study.
Now Lot is in Sodom and Gomorrah. And, we find him sitting in the gate!
Now the two angels came to Sodom in the evening as Lot was sitting in the gate of Sodom. When Lot saw them, he rose to meet them and bowed down with his face to the ground. And he said, "Now behold, my lords, please turn aside into your servant's house, and spend the night, and wash your feet; then you may rise early and go on your way." They said however, "No, but we shall spend the night in the square." (Gen 19:1-2)
If this guy is righteous then he surely is NOT living up to his uncle Abraham’s expectations and what God would require of us to be His righteous followers. Sitting in the gate means Lot is now part of the upper wealthy class of the evil pagan community of Sodom. It’s like Lot compromised his faith and walk with God.
Gen_19:1-3. sitting at the gate. In ancient cities the gate area functioned as a public square. Its constant flow of people made it the ideal place for businessmen to set up their booths and for judges to hear cases. The fact that Lot is sitting in the gate suggests he was doing business there and had been accepted in the community of Sodom. (The IVP Bible Background Commentary: Old Testament. Copyright © 2000 by John H. Walton, Victor H. Matthews and Mark W. Chavalas)
Here’s a link to a great article on ancient city gates. One needs to understand this archaeological fact of those ancient days to even begin to grasp the full aspects of these events. Here’s the link for the article - https://www.gotquestions.org/city-gate.html
Here’s another link to an article by Lois Tverberg (if you haven’t connected with Lois, her website, and have not read her books, you are missing out on learning from one truly brilliant Bible historical scholar – here’s her website link - https://ourrabbijesus.com/
And here’s the link to the article Lois did on Lot and his poor decisions. She helps us see that there is something wrong with this guy. Link - https://engediresourcecenter.com/2015/07/03/lots-choice/
But before you start looking down on Lot consider the application of this story to us today. We are witnessing the failure of the church and the rejection of what the church is “preaching” by the Millennials, Generation Xers, and the turning away of our youth, Generation Z. Something has gone wrong and the data coming our from the Barna Group (website - https://www.barna.com/) supports this. We live in Sodom and Gomorrah, we live in decadent, chaotic, violent, deadly, and evils times. And it seems that like Lot we have a view that we should “go along to get along” – in other words many many Christians would chose to “sit in the gate” and compromise their walk as disciples of Rabbi Yeshua. Join us in this podcast and in lesson 40 coming soon. Let us learn the truth, the truth that sets us free, and see that the story of Lot and Sodom and Gomorrah is so applicable to today.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In this lesson we start our study of the exact words of the Lord's prayer. This lesson will focus on the first two words, "Our Father."
Is Jesus teaching something new? Is Jesus bringing in a new idea? Were the disciples of Jesus amazed at the start of the prayer when they heard the words, "Our Father?"
Again, we return to 24-30 A.D. - the time when Jesus was here as a rabbi, as a Torah teacher. Torah does not mean law but instruction. Jesus was teaching the Father's instruction and not laws. That makes sense when you understand what Torah means and that all the had in Jesus' day was the Hebrew Scriptures that we call the Old Testament. There is nothing OLD about it. And, as we reconnect to those days we find that these two words, "Our Father," show that the Lord's Prayer that He gave to His disciple, and therefore to us, is a prayer coming out of a Jewish culture; we can therefore more fully appreciate the prayer when we understand its Jewish background and foundation.
I said I'd supply some links. The links in this lesson are referenced below.
Link 1 - click here for the scholarly site for the Dead Sea Scrolls
Link 2 - click here for the Tobit fragment of Tobit 13:4
Link 3 - click here for the video "Where is the Garden of Gethsemane?"
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In this 2nd lesson on the Lord's prayer we will focus on Jesus' specific guidelines He taught when we pray. 1st, go into your inner room. Next, do not use meaningless repetition like the pagan Gentiles. Are these instructions unique? Is Jesus teaching us something that is different than praying as a religious Jewish person in His day? Are these guidelines uniquely Christian? NOPE. Jesus is teaching and emphasizing what His disciples have been taught as they grew up in their hometown synagogue schools. As we study this in its historical context we find we are dealing with things so common in the Hebrew culture of the 1st century, Jesus' day. But, Jesus is emphasizing that prayer is not just going through the motions. Jesus is teaching us this act of prayer is a big deal in that praying to the Father is talking to Him in a deeply personal, intimate, and private manner. He is teaching us that concentrated and intentional prayer is a mark of a true disciple.
Again, in this session I mention a few resources. I am providing the links to two of them. The first is a link to the early Jewish Christian instruction booklet called the Didache (Greek for "teaching") written in the late 1st century. It provides guidelines and instruction for living as a true disciple. The second link is Ray Vander Laan's article on Rabbi and Talmid or Rabbi and Disciple. The Lord's prayer has been given to His disciples since one of His disciples asked Jesus to teach them how to pray. Knowing what a disciple is is important background for us to know the Lord's prayer and how it relates to us.
Link to the Didache - click here for the complete ancient Didache
Link to Ray's article on Rabbi and Talmid - click here for Ray's article
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
What did the people do in Sodom and Gomorrah that made God to decide to totally annihilate them and their cities? What sin is so grievous, serious, or grave that God will not back down from bringing down His wrath? This is a heavy concept to think about. What adds to the seriousness of this lesson is Abraham finally got God to say He’d spare the cities if 10 righteous people could be found. But, think about it. What if 10 could not be found but only 9 or 8 or 5? Now what? The righteous would suffer God’s wrath with the unrighteous if 10 could not be found. There’d be no “rapture” for them.
So, what is the line in God’s eyes that we dare not cross? Is there a line such that there is no escape, no “rapture?” Perhaps in the midst of experiencing God’s wrath for us we’d be like the Hebrews in Goshen – we’d be miraculously protected by the Lord. Perhaps the Lord would do the same for the 9 or 8 or 5 righteous in Sodom and Gomorrah if 10 righteous could not be found. But, this is only speculation. We don't know.
The people in Sodom and Gomorrah did not know they crossed the line. They did not have God’s instruction which is the meaning of Torah. It does not mean law! They did not realize the heaviness of their evil actions in the eyes of Adonai. Sometimes I wonder if today if we too think we are OK and have not crossed the line such that God will bring down His terrible wrath. Hmm, I wonder. Just consider one aspect of our culture. Since Roe vs. Wade over 62,000,000 babies have been murdered due to abortion in the USA. 62 million!! Haven’t we heard that …
There are six things which the LORD hates, Yes, seven which are an abomination to Him: Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, And hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that run rapidly to evil, A false witness who utters lies, And one who spreads strife among brothers. (Pro 6:16-19)
62 million innocent babies have been murdered and this is something that God hates. Is this the line that if we cross it Adonai says “enough?”
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Who is Avram – exalted father? Later God changes his name to Avraham – the father of nations. Who is this guy? Why does God pick him? It is interesting to note that Paul teaches us that God first gave the Gospel of the Kingdom to Avraham and, also, for any of us who are in Christ, we are descendants to Avraham! Huh? How are we son and daughters of Avraham and Sarah? From Paul we are getting the idea that somehow Messiah Jesus and Avraham might be connected somehow. How? Perhaps it is in the answer to the question of why did God pick Avraham?
The rabbis make up stories or state their views or opinions as MIDRASH – מִדְרָשׁ or according to the Encyclopaedia Britannica, "Midrash was initially a philological method of interpreting the literal meaning of biblical texts. In time it developed into a sophisticated interpretive system that reconciled apparent biblical contradictions, established the scriptural basis of new laws, and enriched biblical content with new meaning. The words in bold are critical. Midrash of the orthodox rabbis sometimes changes the meaning of the Bible text so that the rabbis views and opinions override the Bible text to satisfy their own views. So, one must be careful to study the midrashim of the rabbis since it can lead to misleading ideas of the meaning of the Bible text. One must be extra careful when listening to a teacher who quotes the rabbis and their midrashim as “gospel.”
But in a midrash of Genesis the rabbis seemingly came up with a story (a form of a midrash - a way to explain a "hole" in the Bible text or an unanswered question or unexplained concept) to perhaps explain what Avraham was like so that God saw this and picked him. The story in unhistorical and unbiblical but is cute. It can’t be taken as truth but it is a story that seems to say to us that whatever God saw in this guy must’ve been apparent in Avraham’s life earlier on. Here’s the story …
R' Hiyya said: Terah was a manufacturer of idols. He once went away somewhere and left Abraham to sell them in his place. A man came and wished to buy one. "How old are you?" Abraham asked him. "Fifty years" was the reply. "Woe to such a man," he exclaimed, "you are fifty years old and would worship a day-old object!" At this he became ashamed and departed.
On another occasion a woman came with a plateful of flour and requested him, "Take this and offer it to them." So he took a stick, broke them, and put the stick in the hand of the largest. When his father returned he demanded, "What have you done to them?" "I cannot conceal it from you," he rejoined. "A woman came with a plateful of fine meal and requested me to offer it to them. One claimed 'I must eat first,' while another claimed 'I must eat first.' Thereupon the largest arose, took the stick and broke them." "Why do you make sport of me," [Terah] cried out, "have they then any knowledge?" "Should not your ears listen to what your mouth is saying," [Abraham] retorted. (Midrash Beresheet 38)
It is a fun story, a fun midrash. But it is certainly made up, not true, and unbiblical. However, it makes a point. Avraham knew that stone idols are not gods probably before God picked him. That makes sense.
Here's a link to a credible Jewish website - The Jewish Virtual Library. Here you can read about Avraham and some of the "traditions" and midrashim associated with Avraham. Link - click here to access the article
But, it doesn’t answer the question, why Avraham? What was it that God saw in him to pick him? The answer is explosive and must be grasped if you are a true disciple of Jesus enduring the chaos and evil of these days.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
This is a NEW podcast series. We will focus on the Lord's Prayer or what we sometimes call, "The Our Father." There are 100's of excellent books from excellent scholars on this prayer. What we will do is simply look at this prayer in its historical context. And, God willing, this perspective will only add to the understanding we have of this prayer and prayer in general. In this first session we ask why did Jesus give the disciples this prayer? The Jewish people in Jesus' day were known as a praying people. They had a set of prayers they prayed three times a day! This was normative as relates to the Jewish culture of Jesus' day, 2nd Temple Judaism. So why does Jesus add to their list of prayers? As we reconnect to the culture the reason is explosive and only challenges us to also understand how this prayer relates to us in the 21st century.
In this session I bring up various links to other resources. Here's the links below.
Link 1 - Dr. Brad Young's videos on the Hebrew background of the Lord's prayer - click here for his video series
Link 2 - Dr. Brad Young's scholarly work on the Jewish background of the Lord's prayer - click here to access all his books in the bookstore
Link 3 - Dr. Brad Young's article on the Lord's prayer at "Jerusalem Perspective" - click here for part 1 of this 10 part series
Link 4 - Ray Vander Laan's article on "Rabbi and Talmidim" - click here for Ray's awesome article on Rabbi and Talmidim (Disciples)
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Adonai is connecting Passover to First Fruits (Bikkureem) and First Fruits to Shavuot or Pentecost. It is so clear. When we put these events into their historical context of 1446 B.C. or the time of the first Passover, and in 30 A.D., the probable time of Jesus' death an resurrection, ascension, and the feast of Pentecost in Acts 2, we see how the missing pieces of Pentecost are filled in. Our understanding is again enriched and enhanced and we ask ourselves, how did we miss so much? Why isn't Pentecost Sunday a big deal in my church?
In this lesson I hope you will become as passionate as I in terms of the fact we in the "church" need to bring back Pentecost Sunday and make it a big deal again. It is more, much more, than what some say is the "birthday of the church." Shavuot, its Hebrew name, is integrated into the special season, the season of God's ways of deliverance, salvation, redemption, and renewal.
Hear the words of Jesus, the Good Shepherd,
"I am the good shepherd, and I know My own and My own know Me, even as the Father knows Me and I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep. I have other sheep (us Gentiles), which are not of this fold (Israel); I must bring them also, and they will hear My voice; and they (Jew and Gentile) will become one flock with one shepherd." (Joh 10:14-16)
This is the gathering in of His believers as one flock, one people, or one assembly - in Greek ECCLESIA which is translated as CHURCH. The gathering of His assembly seems to begin in John 1 when two followed Jesus. One was Andrew, Peter's brother. More were added as Jesus came to them and said, "Come. Yes, come. Follow me." Shavuot is when the Lord poured out upon us POWER to be His witnesses to GO and make disciples and take God's Salvation (Yeshua - Jesus' name in Hebrew - means salvation!) and take God's Yeshua to the ends of the earth. Our POWER day is PENTECOST.
Here are the links referenced in this lesson.
Ray Vander Laan's audio lesson on Shavuot - click here for RVL's lesson
Tutorial of the feast of Shavuot presented by the Temple Institute in Jerusalem - click here for the lesson
Rev. Ferret's lesson from his book entitled, "The Spring Feasts: the Shadows of the Messiah" - click here for the article
Here's the link to the awesome commentary on Psalm 67 - a Psalm with 49 Hebrew words that many religious Jewish people recite ach day of the count of the omer. But, it is an awesome psalm that is so related to Jesus, His resurrection, ascension, and Shavuot. Christians should be saying this everyday from the day of resurrection to Pentecost Sunday. Check this out - click here for Psalm 67 and Jesus
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Where did the the events of Acts 2 happen? In the upper room? Some say it had to be since the disciples were all frightened to be jailed and persecuted like Jesus. But, were they frightened by the time Shavuot comes around? Remember, Jesus rises from the dead in the 1st day of the Omer (listen to lesson 1) - He rises from the dead on the feast of First Fruits, Bikkureem. Forty days pass - over 5 weeks - and Jesus ascends to the Father. Were those disciples cowering in the upper room for 40 days and 40 nights? Absolutely not. The Bible is clear and precise on this. Moreover, on Shavuot where would be the only place to find a large crowd of religious Jews? Where is the ONLY place you'd find a large crowd of 3000 who wanted to be baptized after they heard Peter's sermon? Where?
The important point of all this is just as God chose the 40th day for His Son to return (the Ascension) God also picked a precise location for the coming of the Holy Spirit ( רוח הקודש Ruach HaKodesh) upon the 120 disciples. The 40th day was full of meaning if you were a Jew in 30 A.D. a disciple of Jesus witnessing the ascension. Likewise, the location of the events in Acts 2 is chosen by God since it makes the connection of Passover to Pentecost.
Here are the links I mentioned in this podcast.
Link to Rev. Ferret's article on Bikureem and First Fruits and the count of the Omer - click here for the article
Link to the Shavuot tutorial at the website for The Temple Institute - click here for the lesson
Link for an article on where is Mt. Zion - click here for the article
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
The feast of Pentecost is a day many Christians say is the "birthday" of the church. That's right! It is also the time God sends His Holy Spirit upon us. That's right! But there is so much more.
In this first lesson we will put this feast back into its historical and cultural context of the 1st century in Israel. We will again ask how Jesus' 120 disciples, who saw Him ascend on day 40 after His resurrection, understood this time and these events. For them, Jesus ascending on day 40 had a meaning we don't get since we are not Jewish followers of Jesus back then. That Jesus rose on day 40 is explosive to those 1st believers and it will be to us as well. God chose this day on purpose. Forty has major significance to those Jewish disciples of Jesus then.
In this lesson we will clearly establish the connection between all these feasts - Passover to First Fruits to Shavuot or Pentecost. Jesus' ascension is intimately connected to Passover and Pentecost. When we walk those paths and streets of those 120 disciples, may we too gain have a deeper and more enriching understanding of the feast of Shavuot. Perhaps it will inspire many in the church to return the services on Pentecost Sunday into the joyous and powerful time of remembrance it was intended to be by the Lord but has been mostly neglected by the church.
Here's the links I mentioned in this lesson.
My article on the Feast of First Fruits, the Omer Count, and Shavuot - click here for Rev. Ferret's article
Link to the Light of Menorah podcasts, "Archaeology of Passover" - click here for all four episodes of this important series
Link to pictures of the Chapel of the Ascension - click here for the website with maps and diagrams and pictures
Link to pictures of the Russian Church of the Ascension on the Mt. of Olives - click here for those amazing maps and diagrams and pictures
Link to pictures of Augusta Victoria and the German Lutheran Church of the Ascension - click here for maps and pictures
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In Genesis chapter 17 we study some amazing things. First, as in the previous lesson, lesson 36, we study the NEW covenant of circumcision, in Hebrew, Brit Meelah בְּרִית מִילָה. And it is a NEW covenant but it seems to also be related to the NEW names Avram and Saree are given by Yahvay, the Lord. Avram (exalted father) is now Avraham (the father of many nations and Saree (my princess) is not Sarah (princess – she will not just be the princess of Avraham but the princess of many nations). Both of them share in the plans and agenda of the Lord.
There’s more. In this lesson in chapter 17 we now hear God update His promise to Avraham that He first made in chapter 12 …
Gen 12:2 And I will make you a great nation, And I will bless you, And make your name great; And so you shall be a blessing;
And then again in chapter 15 when we read …
After these things the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision, saying, "Do not fear, Abram, I am a shield to you; Your reward shall be very great." Abram said, "O Lord GOD, what will You give me, since I am childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?" And Abram said, "Since You have given no offspring to me, one born in my house is my heir." Then behold, the word of the LORD came to him, saying, "This man will not be your heir; but one who will come forth from your own body, he shall be your heir." (Gen 15:1-4)
God promises Avraham will have descendants. He will have many descendants. Avraham and Sarah probably thought this would happen through the accepted manner then through the maid servant, Hagar (see lesson 34) since Saree and Avram both knew they could not have kids at their age. But, God had to help Avraham and Sarah understand that His plan was Avraham and Sarah would have a son. This is a NEW plan. God didn’t specify this earlier but now we read …
Then God said to Abraham, "As for Sarai your wife, you shall not call her name Sarai, but Sarah shall be her name. "I will bless her, and indeed I will give you a son by her. Then I will bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of peoples will come from her." (Gen 17:15-16)
So, this indeed is a chapter of NEW things! It reminds us that all this leads to the NEW covenant in Jerusalem in Jesus. We are NEW creatures in Christ (2 Cor. 5:17). Moreover, this chapter 17 is connected to us and we see Paul teach us a NEW perspective of who we are. We believers we are sons and daughters of Avraham as Paul teaches (Gal. 3:7 and in 3:29).
Link for background on our teacher, Rev. John Ferret - click here for teacher background
In this podcast we will study the covenant of circumcision or in Hebrew BRIT MEELAH בְּרִית מִילָה. Perhaps you as I always thought that this was something unique to the Bible; circumcision was some bloody ritual God made up that was like a right of initiation to be a Hebrew. Wow, is that wrong. It seems that all this is connected to the fact that Moses wrote the Torah, the 1st five books of the Bible to the Hebrews who came out of Egypt. These former slaves were the ones who would have first heard God’s word read to them. Moreover. When they would have gotten to Genesis 17 and the covenant of circumcision, they would have immediately related it to the ritual practiced in Egypt. This was not new to them. The Hebrews knew that circumcision in ancient Egypt was thought to be a mark of passage from childhood to adulthood. The picture above is dated to 2355-43 B.C. hundreds of years before Abraham ever was alive. The alteration of the body and ritual of circumcision was supposed to give access to ancient mysteries reserved solely for the initiated. Circumcisions were performed by priests in a public ceremony, using a stone blade. It is thought to have been more popular among the upper echelons of the society, although it was not universal and those lower down the social order are known to have had the procedure done. (See Gollaher, David (February 2001). "1, The Jewish Tradition." Circumcision: A History Of The World's Most Controversial Surgery. Basic Books).
So, once again, as we put the Bible into its historical perspective, we find circumcision was a man made ritual. It may have been performed by those Hebrews who had assimilated into the Egyptian culture. This seems very likely. But now God comes and takes what they knew and changes it completely. It becomes something more. It’s not a sign anymore of a boy becoming a man. Not a special way to know the mysteries of the gods. That’s done. Now it is a sign that this baby boy is part of the covenant of Abraham and a sign to all Israel there is a new citizen born again among God’s kingdom of Israel. And, once we see what the original meaning was when God changed circumcision, we now begin to see how all this becomes a picture for us. As disciples of the Lord we have become new creatures in Messiah and new citizens of the final Kingdom of Adonai and we are “circumcised” by the Spirit as in Rom. 2:28-29. True “children of Abraham” are those who follow Abraham’s example of believing God (Genesis 15:6). Physical circumcision does not make one a child of God; faith does. Believers in Jesus Christ can truly say they are children of “Father Abraham.”
“If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise” (Galatians 3:29).
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
According to the "Inter Varsity Press Bible Commentary: the Old Testament," we read ...
Gen_16:1-4. maidservants. Slave women or bondswomen were considered both property and legal extensions of their mistress. As a result it would be possible for Sarai to have Hagar perform a variety of household tasks as well as to use her as a surrogate for her own barren womb. Gen_16:2. contractual arrangements for barrenness. Concubines did not have the full status of wives but were girls who came to the marriage with no dowry and whose role included childbearing. As a result concubinage would not be viewed as polygamy. In Israel, as in most of the ancient world, monogamy was generally practiced. Polygamy was not contrary to the law or contemporary moral standards but was usually not economically feasible. The main reason for polygamy would be that the first wife was barren. In the Bible most cases of polygamy among commoners occur prior to the period of the monarchy.
So is it possible in this amazing account that Sarai (her name hasn't been changed yet by the Lord to Sarah) may have learned from Avram (his name too has not been changed to Abraham) that God promised them a son. Remember, the Bible says that only Avram had "heard" God tell him he'd have a son. The Bible is silent regarding Sarai at this time. Consider ...
After these things the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision, saying, "Do not fear, Abram, I am a shield to you; Your reward shall be very great." Abram said, "O Lord GOD, what will You give me, since I am childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?" And Abram said, "Since You have given no offspring to me, one born in my house is my heir." Then behold, the word of the LORD came to him, saying, "This man will not be your heir; but one who will come forth from your own body, he shall be your heir." (Gen 15:1-4 NASB)
It just doesn't seem probable that Avram could hold this news in and keep it from Sarai. It can't be proven but it does not seem possible that a husband would keep this amazing promise of God from his wife. So, Sarai is possibly taking matters in her own hands and using an accepted practice in the ancient Near East. She and Avram can have a son and this would be through Sarai's Egyptian maid servant, Hagar. Thus, this well known Bible "story" - I'd rather call it a Bible happening or event and not a story which implies it might be a work of fiction - is based upon real practices in the ancient Near East. Once again as we put the Bible into its historical context, the veracity of this event is totally supported.
Hagar runs away after being treated harshly by Sarai. Is this due to the fact that Avram was taken in with Hagar and the physical union they shared? We don't know. But, Hagar runs away and this pagan woman is the first person in the Torah to meet, talk to, and see the Angel of the Lord! In lesson 32 in this series I discussed the Angel of the Lord in detail. Rabbis teach it was an angel but the Torah is clear. God inspired Moses to write ...
Then she called the name of the LORD who spoke to her, "You are a God who sees"; for she said, "Have I even remained alive here after seeing Him?" Therefore the well was called Beer-lahai-roi; behold, it is between Kadesh and Bered. (Gen 16:13-14 NASB)
There is more we need to consider in this remarkable event in Hagar's life. Once again we will see how this may connect to Jesus' life and a certain woman He met by a source of water. On top of that this event may also be a powerful lesson for the Hebrews who came out of Egypt and were the first ones to hear this event in Torah. How might have this affected them in that God "saved" this pagan Egyptian woman and her son? God even told Hagar to name her son, ִישׁמעאל Ishmael, which means "God will hear." Is it possible God is reaffirming the verse we know so well, "God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son ... " in John 3:16?
I mentioned in this podcast that I would again provide the link to a powerful article. This article demonstrates clearly that the rabbis of Judaism are wrong to conclude that the Angel of the Lord is only an angel. Here's the link - click here for the article
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - click here
SPECIAL LESSON
In lesson 33 we will turn from our focus on the Torah and the book of Genesis to consider the answer to the question, “Why Do This?” Why should we study the Bible in this manner? Why should be put the Bible in its historical context and strive to hear the Bible on its own terms; that is, to hear the Bible as to what it says and what it does not say?
Since I returned from my first study tour to the Middle East in Israel years ago and continuing in my learning since those days, I have found that most lessons I hear from Christians are devoid of the historical context of the Bible. I have found that most teach with no concept of how important it is to understand the word of God as the “first hearers” did. A classic example is the picture of Jesus with the sharp two edged sword in Pergamum in Revelation 2. No one ever has ever taught how the sharp two edged sword and Pergamum are related. No one ever in teachings I heard makes the connection. Why?
The Bible was written to them, those who first hear it, and not to us. As my first teacher said that we must understand the who and the what and the where of the Bible event to understand the why. This was Ray Vander Laan and I highly recommend you to connect with his ministry, “That the World May Know,” and to start purchasing his DVD’s of Bible lessons in their historical context filmed on site in the Middle East. Here’s a link to his website. Link - click here
I urge you to check out his free articles and audio lessons. Click on LEARN at the homepage of "That the World May Know."
So come and join me. Let us consider the importance of hearing the Bible on its own terms. Let us consider bringing our brain to the Bible and use our minds and intelligence that God gave us to come to know Him in a deeper and more passionate way so that the fire in us will begin to burn out of control and we will not be able to keep our mouths shut anymore.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
PART 1 OF 3
VIDEO 15 MINUTES
NOTE: video works better on YouTube - link - click here for the complete video on YouTube
An amazing archaeological discovery was made in the deserts of Sudan. It has everything to do with proving the Exodus showing that the Exodus probably really happened and when. But, two statements Jesus made in His Last Supper are also connected. One statement in John 14 to Phillip and the other He made in a prayer to the Father. Come and join us and let's go to the temple of Soleb, built by pharaoh Amenhotep III, the grandson of Amenhotep II who is the likely pharaoh of the Exodus, and see the oldest inscription of the name of the Lord.
I also suggest you connect with Joel Kramer, an evangelical Bible archaeologist. He has done amazing work with teaching the Bible via video based upon the archaeology that proves the veracity of the Bible. His website is www.SourceFlix.com. Look for his new video, "The Oldest Yahweh Inscription," to learn more about the Soleb Temple.
Here's the link to his website and the link directly to the video.
SourceFlix - click here to access Joel Kramer's website
Joel Kramer's video, "The Oldest Yahway Inscription" - click here for the video
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - click here
PART 2 OF 3
VIDEO 15 MINUTES
An amazing archaeological discovery was made in the deserts of Sudan. It has everything to do with proving the Exodus showing that the Exodus probably really happened and when. But, two statements Jesus made in His Last Supper are also connected. One statement in John 14 to Phillip and the other He made in a prayer to the Father. Come and join us and let's go to the temple of Soleb, built by pharaoh Amenhotep III, the grandson of Amenhotep II who is the likely pharaoh of the Exodus, and see the oldest inscription of the name of the Lord.
I also suggest you connect with Joel Kramer, an evangelical Bible archaeologist. He has done amazing work with teaching the Bible via video based upon the archaeology that proves the veracity of the Bible. His website is www.SourceFlix.com. Look for his new video, "The Oldest Yahweh Inscription," to learn more about the Soleb Temple.
Here's the link to his website and the link directly to the video.
SourceFlix - click here to access Joel Kramer's website
Joel Kramer's video, "The Oldest Yahweh Inscription" - click here for the video
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - click here
PART 3 OF 3
VIDEO 15 MINUTES
An amazing archaeological discovery was made in the deserts of Sudan. It has everything to do with proving the Exodus showing that the Exodus probably really happened and when. But, two statements Jesus made in His Last Supper are also connected. One statement in John 14 to Phillip and the other He made in a prayer to the Father. Come and join us and let's go to the temple of Soleb, built by pharaoh Amenhotep III, the grandson of Amenhotep II who is the likely pharaoh of the Exodus, and see the oldest inscription of the name of the Lord.
I also suggest you connect with Joel Kramer, an evangelical Bible archaeologist. He has done amazing work with teaching the Bible via video based upon the archaeology that proves the veracity of the Bible. His website is www.SourceFlix.com. Look for his new video, "The Oldest Yahweh Inscription," to learn more about the Soleb Temple.
Here's the link to his website and the link directly to the video.
SourceFlix - click here to access Joel Kramer's website
Joel Kramer's video, "The Oldest Yahweh Inscription" - click here for the video
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - click here
Avram (Abram as pronounced in Hebrew – name hasn’t changed yet to Abraham or Saree to Sarah) is about to walk through the blood path – it is an ancient Chaldean (area of the first kingdom of Babylon) ritual to make a covenant. Avram knows it well since he himself is a Chaldean - Gen. 11:28 & 31. So God is communicating to Avram using things familiar he is familiar with.
This covenant ritual means if one walks through the blood path between the animals the person is saying two things. First, that by walking through one agrees to abide by the covenant. Second, if one breaks the covenant then by walking through the blood of the animals you are saying that if I break the covenant then let it be done to me what has been done to the animals. But, Avram never had to walk through the blood. He was represented by someone else. Just like Jesus and the new covenant we too are represented by someone else. This seems to have everything to do with God’s amazing redemption plan of the human race by grace.
A second major topic in this lesson is who is “the angel of the Lord?” There are 52 occurrences of the phrase "the angel of the Lord" in the Hebrew Scriptures, the Old Testament. You can see the verses starting in Genesis to Exodus 3 which is the focus of this lesson.
Gen_16:7 Now the angel of the LORD found her by a spring of water in the wilderness, by the spring on the way to Shur.
Gen_16:9 Then the angel of the LORD said to her, "Return to your mistress, and submit yourself to her authority."
Gen_16:10 Moreover, the angel of the LORD said to her, "I will greatly multiply your descendants so that they will be too many to count."
Gen_16:11 The angel of the LORD said to her further, "Behold, you are with child, And you will bear a son; And you shall call his name Ishmael, Because the LORD has given heed to your affliction.
Gen_22:11 But the angel of the LORD called to him from heaven and said, "Abraham, Abraham!" And he said, "Here I am."
Gen_22:15 Then the angel of the LORD called to Abraham a second time from heaven,
Gen_24:7 "The LORD, the God of heaven, who took me from my father's house and from the land of my birth, and who spoke to me and who swore to me, saying, 'To your descendants I will give this land,' He will send His angel before you, and you will take a wife for my son from there.
Exo_3:2 The angel of the LORD appeared to him in a blazing fire from the midst of a bush; and he looked, and behold, the bush was burning with fire, yet the bush was not consumed.
Who is this? What is it? What do the rabbis say? Some Christian scholars say it is Jesus! How can that be if one studies and asks the question what does the Bible say? No where in the Bible does it even hint at the fact that the angel is Jesus.
Once again we need to BRING OUR BRAIN to the Bible. We all agree this is the inspired word of God. In short we say the Bible is God's word. If so and God never said the angel of the Lord is Jesus, then how do some of our Christian scholars say it is Jesus? It is dangerous to put words in the Bible that are not there. I would rather it be taught with words like "is it possible that the angel of the Lord might be a manifestation of Jesus. Perhaps some Bible verses suggest this might be true." But there are many that seem to say they know the answer and it is their way or the highway. Not a good way to teach God's word.
In this lesson one question I pose, and I will again and again, who do you believe? Do you believe the orthodox rabbis? Do you believe so called Christian scholars? Or do you believe in THE VERY WORDS OF GOD? I suggest to you it must be the latter.
An excellent article on this topic can be found at this link.
Link - click here for the article
Who is this guy, Rev. Ferret? What's his background? Why should we take time to listen to him? Here's a link to check out his background - click here
FAITH IN GOD OR SOMETHING ELSE??
This lesson will complete the study on the character of Melchizedek (in Hebrew – Malkee Tzadik – “my righteous king”) and try and understand what is meant by the phrase that Jesus is of the “order” of Melchizedek. Order? Is this a Catholic thing; like the order of Dominicans or Franciscans or the Jesuits? Far from it. Once we understand the Hebrew the explanation is so clear and simple. God is trying to teach us His instruction, His Torah. He is not trying to confuse us or them, 2000 and 3000 years ago.
A huge topic in this lesson is the concept of FAITH. What does it mean to have faith? Is it simply a mental acceptance of a concept in reality? For instance I have a favorite coffee shop in our area. I believe every time I go there the coffee will be awesome. And, it is! But, this is a mental acceptance based upon my prejudice that this coffee is excellent.
In Gen. 15:6 one reads that Abraham BELIEVED in God and then God said based upon this that Abraham was righteous. OK, does that mean we only need a mental acceptance of the existence of God along with grace to be saved? Is that all this is saying? It must be more since Abraham already knew that God was real in Genesis 12 when Abraham obeyed God and left Haran for Canaan. There must be something deeper going on here.
Once again we in the church have few leaders and teachers trained in Biblical Hebrew or Greek. We have few leaders and teachers trained in understanding the Bible in its historical context. Thus, it results in terrible misconceptions of God’s word of faith and belief; a classic example is Gen. 15:6.
In this lesson I said I would provide you with a critically important article that takes us into the Hebraic understanding. You need to read this article. Matter of fact I recommend the Messianic ministry called, “Netivyah,” (means the way of the Lord) in Jerusalem and their Bible studies and lessons. One can check out their “store” at their website and find the magazines in English. You can click on them and download them for free. The links are below …
Link to the article from Netivyah on the translations of faith – click here for the article
Link to the website for Netivyah ministries in Jerusalem - https://netivyah.org/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Jesus teaches a harsh fact, a standard of measure He gives us. It is a tough thing to grasp and to apply in our lives especially in days like today in the USA of 2021. Jesus said …
"You have heard that it was said, 'YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” (Mat 5:43-45)
So, good things happen to the righteous and the unrighteous. They both experience bad things as well. There is no difference between Godly Christians and the ungodly, the ones who are anti-God or anti-Christ. On top of that we are to love our enemies. No where in the entire Bible do we read such a statement except here. Jesus does not negate the Torah, God’s instruction in the books of Moses. He does not negate the law in Lev. 19:18 that says, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” but He adds to it. Jesus is saying our neighbor is our enemy, one who persecutes us and may even be out to do us harm and even kill us. It is Jesus’ requirement of us if we are to be true Christians, real disciples.
This is harsh. It is tough reality. We live in a fallen world and Jesus’ does not mince words. To be a disciple and take on His “standard of measure” is not easy; it is a matter of life and death.
But THERE IS A DIFFERENCE. There is an amazing reality that separates the Godly person from the ungodly, the righteous person following the Good Shepherd from the unrighteous person who follows the false shepherd. What is that difference? We see it in one verse in Hebrew in Psalm 4:3 and in the historical context of Jesus’ day. How might a disciple of Jesus understand Psalm 4:3? I suggest to you we need to grasp what they may have understood. It truly makes all the difference.
I mentioned in this lesson to consider listening to a podcast I did entitled, “For Such a Time as This.” It is a study on Phil. 4:6-7 …
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Php 4:6-7)
Listening to this podcast (in four parts) will add so much more to this lesson. If you click on the link below it will take you to the series, “For Such a Time as This.” They are in reverse order – session 4 is first and you need to “slide down” to access session 1 and begin the study.
LINK - click here for the four part series on Phil 4:6-7
To complete your study even more, I also suggest you listen to the podcast series on the Lord’s Prayer. It is so related to Psalm 4:3 and the concepts in this verse and the concept of being a true disciple of Rabbi Yeshua, our Lord, our Savior, our God, Yeshua HaMashiach, Jesus the Messiah, Jesus the Christ. See the link below to access the sessions on the Lord’s prayer. Once again they are in reverse order.
LINK - click here for the 9 part series on the Lord's Prayer
Other Truth Nuggets on the Psalms ...
Nuggets 10 - Psalm 1 - I Am and Acacia Tree - click here
Nuggets 2 - Psalm 23 and 91 - God's Hidden Tents - click here
Nuggets 1 - Psalm 118:24 - This is the Day - But It Isn't Today - click here
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
No matter what a Christian faces, no matter what we live through, no matter what challenges we encounter, even terrible evil and death, Jesus COMMANDS us to do something. What did He command us?
We have NO choice in this. These are the very words of God; it is not my opinion. He orders us and we MUST listen and obey which in Hebrew is the word שְׁמַע or Shema.
You may be familiar with a famous verse in Deut. 6:4 that says “Hear O Israel, the Lord is our God.” The Hebrew: שְׁמַע יִשְׂרָאֵל; Sh’ma Yisrael. Sh’ma means to hear so as to understand and as a result to do. So, we are to Sh’ma Yeshua’s words – to hear His instruction so that we understand and act.
Light of Menorah is one of many resources so that in these days you can do what Jesus orders you to do. Light of Menorah is one a many vehicles so that you can act and live as a real disciple. This is the purpose of this ministry. This is why I go on day after day in spite of what we face and endure. I have no choice in this. It is as if the Lord ordered me to do what I do and there is no release and no relief in this work. Sounds like a real chore. NO!! I do what He gave me to do and it is an awesome JOY. I hope you are blessed in using Light of Menorah to accomplish Jesus' command.
His command? Oh forgot. Now listen.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
You may recall that the Hebrews were said to be building the storage cities of Pithom and Rameses. You can read this in …
Exo 1:11 So they appointed taskmasters over them to afflict them with hard labor. And they built for Pharaoh storage cities, Pithom and Raamses.
Problem. We have studied that the Hebrews left Egypt in 1446 B.C. and Rameses the Great (a.k.a. as Rameses II), the supposed pharaoh of the Exodus as per the late date (the wrong date) did not come to power until 1279 B.C. reigned until 1213 B.C. So there are no cities named Rameses in the Nile Delta in 1446 B.C. The city, later called Rameses, is called Avaris in the 15th century B.C., the time of the Exodus. You can visit this site today. It is called Tel el-daba. So, what’s going on?
Also, in this lesson, we deal with the city of Dan in the days of Abraham. The events in chapter 15 are close to 2091 B.C. when Abraham and Sarah entered Canaan. The city of Dan was named by the tribe of Dan – Dan is the son of Jacob the grandson of Abraham – when they moved north and captured the city of Laish (pronounced Lay Esh). This is clear when we read …
Jdg 18:29 They called the name of the city Dan, after the name of Dan their father who was born in Israel; however, the name of the city formerly was Laish.
So, Abraham comes to a city called Dan, as we read in the Bible, and the city of Dan is not even there yet! This is nuts! What is going on? Is the Bible wrong? Was it written later in 3rd or 2nd century B.C.? We need to find out and again show the truthfulness of the Bible.
In lesson 30 in Genesis 15 we then come across this verse …
Gen 14:17 Then after his return from the defeat of Chedorlaomer and the kings who were with him, the king of Sodom went out to meet him at the valley of Shaveh (that is, the King's Valley). And Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine; now he was a priest of God Most High.
Who is this guy? There are some who say it’s Jesus! That’s crazy. Some rabbis say it is Shem or the son of Shem the son of Noah. Consider a few references from ancient Jewish (non-biblical) literature …
- Melchizedek was Shem the son of Noah, a priest most high." (Pirke De Rabbi Eliezari)
- "And Melchizedek is Shem, the son of Noah." (Rashi, Commentaries, Genesis 14:18)
- "And Melchizedek is Shem, the son of Noah." (Talmud, Tr. Nedarim32)
That Melchizedek is Shem or his son is a major error since Melchizedek is the king of Salem. Salem is probably Jerusalem. At this time when Abraham and Melchizedek meet, Salem is a Jebusite city. The Jebusites are a clan of the pagan Canaanites. The rabbis show they dismiss real history and make up their own opinions which are in total conflict with historical truth.
So, who is this guy? Not Jesus. Not Shem. Not the son of Shem. How do we understand this enigmatic Bible character?
Come and join us in lesson 30. Come and do what your Lord commanded you to do if you are a TRUE Christian, a real disciple of Rabbi Yeshua.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
What is wrong with Lot? As we read the events in Genesis 13 without the understanding of the background of the ancient Near East, we do not grasp the full understanding of the answer to the question. Yes. Most agree Lot chose poorly; Lot decided to live in Sodom and Gomorrah.
But, is there more to these events that we can’t see? Once again, if you have been part of our journey through the Torah, the 1st five books of the Bible, with are focus on Genesis, you know that as we put the Bible in its historical context, we “see” things in a whole different manner. It then helps us through the Holy Spirit understand His Word in a more expanded way.
I mentioned a website one can go to study the ancient family structure called the בית אב - Beit Av – the house of the father – the extended family structure lead by the patriarch. Here’s the link to the article - click here for the article on the Beit Av
By studying the concept of the Beit Av we can perhaps get a better understanding of what we call the family of God. We as disciples of Yeshua live in His House, the House of the Father, the Temple. In Hebrew the Temple in Jerusalem was never called the Temple. It was called the בית המקדש - Beit HaMikdash – the holy dwelling house of Adonai. So, we are God’s Temple, His בית המקדש - Beit HaMikdash - as Paul teaches in 1 Cor. 3:16.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Jesus is said to have taught the Beatitudes in Matthew 5. It is as if we think Jesus invented the beatitudes and a grammatical form to teach us about what a real disciple is like. Well, he did not. David used the format and so did other writers of the psalms. Solomon uses it also in Proverbs. Psalm 1 is a beatitude. It is a picture of what a righteous man or woman is like who is one of God's people, one saved and part of the everlasting Kingdom of the Most High. Such a one is like a tree planted by streams of water. Once again, David gets it. Adonai inspired David to probably associate a righteous disciple of Yeshua with a particular tree found in the wadis of the Judean wilderness. So, you are like this tree. So come and join us in this podcast to understand what God says we are like even in days of difficulty and distress. We are not taken out of these difficult days but we live in them and through them to show the world what it is like to be HIS disciple, HIS righteous people.
Click here for my paper on the acacia tree - click here for the article
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Jesus teaches His disciples that they are the BRANCHES and He is the TRUE VINE. On top of that these branches are "clean" because of what they learned from their rabbi, Rabbi Jesus. Clean? You mean somehow Jesus' words gave them a bath? Huh?
He was teaching Jews in Israel about 2000 years ago. We are so disconnected from those days that much of what Jesus taught simply escapes us. So, if you thought you understood everything in John 15:1-11 wait till you watch this vidcast! The church has abandoned understanding the Bible in its ancient historical and cultural context. There are so many misconceptions that we are taught mistakenly and without the knowledge of the teacher. It is time once again to reconnect to those days and study His word in context and grasp the original intended meaning by the Lord. Ready? Let's go.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In the Ten Commandments we say God commanded us not to lie. Sorry. He never said that in the Ten Commandments. He said ...
לא תענה ברעך עד שׁקר
Lo Ta'ahneh VayReckaka Ed Shaker
Not Testify to Your Neighbor Falsely
This is legal stuff meaning in court or in any legal proceeding you are not to testify with false statements against your neighbor. This a commandment as related to legal proceedings. (See the "Jerusalem Publication Society Torah Commentary Exodus," by Nahum Sarna, 1991). The actual commandment of God not to lie is found in Lev. 19:11 - "You shall not steal, nor deal falsely, nor lie to one another." So, we need to revise things gang! We need 11 commandments to cover all the bases!
So, do not lie. Some teach that no matter what you must not lie. In a TV program there were three religious men, an orthodox rabbi, a protestant pastor and the priest. The moderator, Dennis Prager, set up a situation to have the rabbi and pastor and priest comment on. The situation was that a woman was being chased by a sadistic rapist in a lonely park. She runs past you and asks you to help her. She hides and thus you have a choice when the evil rapist finally reaches you. You can lie and not tell him where she is hiding or you can not lie and thus put her in danger and perhaps serious injury and death. The pastor and priest said you can not lie and must tell the truth. They said you can tell the truth in such a way that perhaps will not give up her hiding place. The rabbi, however, said he'd lie through his teeth to save her and protect this innocent women. ("Torah Commentary Exodus," MP3 file, Dennis Prager, Part 14 of 57. This is part of Dennis Prager's teaching series on the Torah available at the website store at https://pragerstore.com/product-category/the-torah/complete-torah).
So, we see a dilemma. What would you do? We are not to lie. But, in this lesson we find that Abraham lies. Sarah lies. And yet God does not discipline them. Moreover Abraham and Sarah do it twice! What's going on? Who is right? The rabbi says he'd lie to save her. The Christians say no, we can't lie.
The TORAH is the inspired word of God and it deals with real people in real life. Abraham and Sarah find themselves in a situation where they are caught between a rock and a hard place. This is just another example that God's TORAH is as applicable today as it was in 2091 B.C. Amazing.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
AN IMPORTANT LESSON SHOWING THE VERACITY OF GOD'S WORD.
Abram arrives at Shechem (lesson 26) in 2091 B.C. Really? Who says? Time goes on and then we read in Exod. 12:40 that the sons of Israel (Jacob) lived in Egypt 430 years till they left with Moses. Where does that number come from? Why doesn't anyone explain it? Also it is taught to us that the early date of the Exodus was 1446 B.C. and no one ever justifies this date. It is just stated. Why won't anyone help us understand that this date of 1446 B.C. is supported by REAL archaeology and not someone's opinion or speculation. Well, I will. This lesson is to show that the early date of the Exodus, 1446 B.C. is very likely considering the archaeology supporting it and the study of the events in their historical context.
I mentioned I will provide a number of links to resources to help you study further. These links and resources are shown below.
Link 1 - slides that may help you put all this together - click here for the slides that summarize this podcast
Link 2 - an article on Edwin Thiele that shows how he connects the Assyrian King List (calendar) to 1 Kings 6:1 - click here for the article
Link 3 - video from the Associates for Biblical Research on dating of Exodus Part 1 - click here for Dr. Stripling's video part 1
Link 4 - part 2 of the previous video - click here for part 2
Link 5 - Dr. Bryant Wood's article on setting the date for the Exodus - click here for his article
Link 6 - Dr. Bryant Wood's video on the Hebrews in Egypt part 1 - video part 1
Link 7 - part of of previous video - video part 2
Link 8 - part three of previous video - video part 3
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
If there is a Torah foundation to the Christmas story this lesson and the previous are it. If you haven’t listened to lesson 25 yet, I urge you to do so since 25 and this lesson go together. (Link for lesson 25 - click here for lesson 25 ) If you ever wanted to study scripture that testifies of Jesus’ coming and His mission, these are two Torah lessons that are foundational to our understanding of the coming of the Messiah and the REASON FOR THE SEASON and a direct connection to John 5:39.
In this lesson we will focus on one location. We must turn to geography to see how God picks one place to help us SEE His redemption plan.
In this lesson I mentioned Joel Kramer. He is an OUTSTANDING evangelical Christian archaeologist. He did a Bible study tour recently to Israel when he was studying for his advanced degree in archaeology. One spot they studied was Shechem – the location I mentioned above that God picked. Below is a link to Joel’s video on site in Israel at the ancient ruins of Shechem. You won’t want to miss this. Also, I provided a link to Joel Kramer’s website as well. You MUST go to his website and see the free videos from Israel that will blow you away.
Link to video lesson by Kramer at Shechem - click here for the amazing video
Link to Joel Kramer's website - https://sourceflix.com/
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Some people think that the word "fornication" means sex outside of marriage. Some say that this is what it means in the Bible. NOPE. Sorry folks. God never states specifically that pre-marital sex or sex outside of marriage is a sin. But it is. How does God teach us this in His Torah, His "instruction?" How did He get this across to His chosen people the Hebrews coming out of Egypt? How did God do this to His people in the 1st century A.D. when He, Yeshua HaMaschiach, Jesus the Messiah, God Himself, how did He teach this THEN? We missed it. He did teach it. But, once again we need to put the Bible into its historical perspective. One needs to understand how God taught them THEN 3400, 3000, 2500, or 2000 years ago, so we can understand NOW. Sex outside of marriage is a sin and, on top of that, it looks as if it is something God hates. Wait till you see.
Here's a number of links I promised in the podcast you many find very enlightening.
Link 1 - the practice of sex outside of marriage, abortion, and infanticide in ancient Greece and Rome - click here for the article
Link 2 - the 613 laws of Maimonides - click here for the list
Link 3 - Jewish scholarly site showing that pre-marital sex is NOT brought up in the Hebrew scriptures (the Old Testament) - click here for the article
Link 4 - Ray Vander Laan's article on ancient pagan religion and practices - click here for RVL's excellent article
Link 5 - Josephus' statement that abortion is considered murder - https://lexundria.com/j_ap/2.202/wst
Link 6 - my research article for my master's degree in Biblical history. The focus is on adoption in ancient Turkey (Asia Minor) but relates to infanticide in ancient Rome. The bibliography is invaluable - click here for the paper
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Get ready for one explosive lesson. It all focuses on Gen. 12:1-3 ...
Now the LORD said to Abram, "Go forth from your country, And from your relatives And from your father's house, To the land which I will show you; And I will make you a great nation, And I will bless you, And make your name great; And so you shall be a blessing; And I will bless those who bless you, And the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed." (NASB Gen 12:1-3)
If there is one place in the TORAH, if there is one instance in the Old Testament where God proclaims "good news" for all of us, it is right here. I normally do not rely on Orthodox Rabbinic commentary to help me understand the Bible. Too many times rabbis interpret the Bible in ways that are not based on the historical or cultural context or make up explanations that they need to deal with a scriptural difficulties or issues too tough to answer rationally. It is like the miracle of the oil at Chanukah. It never happened. I am not stating my opinion. I am just telling you what scholarly Jewish sources teach. We Christians fall into the trap of assuming the Orthodox rabbis are THE resource for understanding the Bible from a Jewish point of view. Far from it. For example the Orthodox say the 1st temple was destroyed in 423 B.C. based upon their personal interpretation of some verses in Daniel. However, they are wrong. Archaeology and history prove the temple was destroyed in 586 B.C. So, we need to be very very careful when accessing Orthodox Rabbinic Bible commentary. Here's a link to one of those sources to help you understand that the miracle of the oil never happened on Hanukkah.
Link - click here for the article of why the rabbis changed Hanukkah
However, Rabbinic commentary is not always so off; that is not always the case. I do access rabbinic commentary, not as my primary source, but I need to glean from their ideas and thoughts. In the case of Genesis 12:1-3 their commentary blew me away as I think it will you. Their contributions to understanding these three verses are truly amazing and show us that the foundation of the New Testament is the TORAH. Here we will see, thanks to the rabbis, the gospel of the Kingdom, their view that this is a new start for all mankind, and that the Hebrew of these verses gave Paul insights into his picture of us Gentiles being "grafted in." Here's an article you may find interesting that goes into the Hebrew and of these verses that relate to the Gospel, the Good News, that God inspired Moses to write about.
Link - click here for an article that will blow you away
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
The events of the Tower of Babel story are more applicable to us today than we may have imagined. It is probably something we have not been taught or even considered. For one thing, the people did not just build a tower. They also built a city. They built a city and a tower. This is huge and must be taken into account. What's this all saying?
Also, as the events unfold there is no mention of God. These people probably are not evil. The Bible does not say they are evil. But, these people do not seem to the one's who believe in God. Verses 1-4 they seem to be godless.
God shows up finally in verse 5 when He came and saw not just the tower, but the tower and the city. God sees both. The tower is not the focus but the city and the tower.
Some Bible teachers will say God was angry with the people and what they did. Huh? There is no mention of God being angry. But God sees that they have one language and they are one people and they will not easily be stopped from doing whatever they wish if this continues. God is saying this is dangerous. Huh? Why? Why is is dangerous. Perhaps it has something to do with the fact that humankind never changed after the flood. In Gen. 6:5 and again after the flood in Gen. 8:21, God tells us through Moses' pen that the imagination of men's hearts is to do evil continually. This idea is seemingly repeated here. Is God warning us that mankind as one people with one language and one worldview without God will lead to uncontrolled evil? Is this perhaps and prediction of the end of days when many will be without God and united as one people and one godless worldview? Let's go see.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In vidcast 3 of this series we will study Gen. 1:26-27 and 2:7. God creates man and woman. It is a Bible story we are all so very familiar with. However, 3400 years ago, if you were a Hebrew on the plains of Moab, one of the second generation out of Egypt, or if you were one at the Red Sea when God spilt the sea and you were saved from Pharaoh’s chariots and his army, or if you were one of the Hebrews at Sinai where you heard and saw the amazing events when God gave the Ten Commandments; if you were one of those Hebrews, how may you have heard and understood the scripture verses written by Moses about the creation of man and woman? Probably a lot differently than we do today. But, they were the intended audience to hear God’s word first. Not us. Yes, it was intended for us but we need to reconnect to that ancient culture of 3400 years ago. God’s people had assimilated into the Egyptian culture and after 430 years since Jacob (Israel) and his sons entered Egypt till 1446B.C. when they left, all they knew coming out of Egypt was Egypt, its gods and its religion. God was using Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy to teach His people about Himself and to take the influences of Egypt out of the minds, souls, and hearts of His people. When we reconnect to those ancient days then we begin to see what they saw and we begin to hear what they heard and our understanding of God and His word is enriched and enhanced and expanded. Yes, we know about the creation of man and woman and think it is an ancient story that has no application for us today in the sophisticated 21st century. How can that story impact us? Wait till you see!
So, let’s go and study how the creation of man and woman was a major revolutionary concept 3400 years ago among the pagan cultures of those days. Let us grasp the enhanced ways through polemic theology that God used to help His people to know the truth and to come against the false gods and false religions of Egypt and Canaan. Let us understand who we are, men and women, made and formed in His image and how that relates to us today.
Great article on the book of Genesis as a polemic against Egypt and Canaan. Link - click here to access the article
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In lesson 23 we will deal with two individuals. First is Noah who we left drunk and naked in his tent at the end of the last lesson. Why did God inspire Moses to write this account? After the flood, perhaps close to Noah's death 350 years after the flood, God chooses to relate this event. It begs the question why, since this is God's Torah, His instruction. Torah does not mean law, as one can easily find in any lexicon or credible Bible dictionary. Why did God want to focus on these events? This must be a big deal.
The second person we will deal with is Nimrod. His name is not Hebrew but Semitic and is probably related to the Hebrew word Marad מרד which means rebel. Was Nimrod a rebel? Some say he was the founder of all pagan religions. Some say Nimrod built the Tower of Babel. Did he? The Bible doesn't say that but in LATE Jewish tradition, the rabbis had a field day with creating all sorts of legends. Note, legends are not the truth and should be treated as such. Here is a link to a scholarly work by Dr. Louis Ginsberg, "Legends of the Jews: Vol. 1" where you can read about Nimrod and the legends and stories the rabbis made up in their own mind with no semblance of historical truth. Here's the link - click here for chapter containing the legends of Nimrod
So, let's go and study these two guys a little further. Let's explore the Bible and what it says and not put meaning where it doesn't belong.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
In this video lesson 2 we focus on Gen. 1:21. What did God create; great sea creatures or were they whales or big fish or, as found in one Jewish translation of the Hebrew Scriptures (a.k.a. the Old Testament) were they were crocodiles? Our translators had difficulty with this verse since in Hebrew the actual meaning is great sea monsters! This sounds like a children's story rather than God's word. So, our translators may have decided it had to make sense for us today in the 21st century. I mean guys, I haven't see any sea monsters lately.
But, for the Hebrews, they had lived in Egypt and lived with man-made visions of the gods. One god is a ram another is a jackal and another a falcon. And God is taking them to Canaan, the "Promised Land," where the Canaanites also had gods that were clearly figments of man's imagination. So, the phrase in Gen. 1:21 of great sea monsters might mean something to the Hebrews. Perhaps God is teaching them something that relates only to what the Hebrews faced 3400 years ago. Perhaps He is using a pagan god or a pagan mythological beast to teach His people. God knows there are no sea monsters. But the pagans did! Perhaps even the Hebrews fell victim to such beliefs. He needs to prepare His people for entering Canaan and be ready to bring the "Gospel of the Kingdom" to the Canaanites and later the world and to help the Canaanites to understand "there ain't no sea monsters" and to grasp truth and who is God. For Israel this was their mission as we see in ...
He says, "It is too small a thing that You should be My Servant (in Jesus' day it was understood that Israel was the servant) To raise up the tribes of Jacob and to restore the preserved ones of Israel; I will also make You a light of the nations so that My salvation (Jesus' name in Hebrew means salvation) may reach to the end of the earth." (Isa 49:6)
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
For those of you who have kept up with all the lessons in this Bible study series, from lesson 1 to this lesson, lesson 22, you know that one goal is to see how the Torah may have been understood THEN, 3400 years ago, among the Hebrews just leaving Egypt. This lesson is another clear example. This event, of Noah planting a vineyard, seems out of place since we just dealt with the judgment of all mankind, the flood, and that the impact on evil in the world. Then, the flood is over, almost 350 years pass, and what does God have Moses write about? Another major event, another major lesson? NO. He inspires Moses to tell about Noah planting a vineyard. What's with that? Why is this so important?
It is important. But, once again we must go back and put these words in their historical setting. We need to ask ourselves what did those Hebrews who came out of Egypt see in this event? What did they "hear?" And knowing that it will enrich our Bible understanding and help us know God in a deeper and more profound way.
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Recently an associate of mine asked me about the Parable of the Talents in Matthew's Gospel in chapter 25. He has some who say that God is teaching us concepts regarding investing our money. I said I was highly doubtful since once again we need to consider the textual context (the words before and even after the parable) and the historical context. A highly credible archaeologist, Dr. Ben Witherington III (an American New Testament scholar. Witherington is Professor of New Testament Interpretation at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky, and an ordained pastor in the United Methodist Church), said that TEXT (the words of the Bible) with no CONTEXT (its place in the Bible and the historical setting) is a PRETEXT (a reason to justify one's view) for what we want the words to mean. Let me repeat that with no commentary - TEXT with no CONTEXT is a PRETEXT for what we want the words to mean. Thus, no context means you can make up your own meaning. This is dangerous and is done much to frequently in the church today and in many seminaries who have abandoned the study of the Bible in its historical setting.
Jesus taught this parable 2000 years ago to His disciples. That Jesus ONLY taught His disciples is clear as this parable, and the parable of the Wise and Foolish virgins, is in a section that begins in Chapter 24 of Matthew's Gospel when Jesus was on the Mt. of Olives. His disciples came to Him and started asking Him about the end times. The Parable of the Talents is taught to His disciples; it was Jesus and His 12 only. For those disciples raised in Judaism of Jesus' day they heard this parable in ways that differ with how we look at it as Christians in the 21st century. Let's return to HEAR what they heard THEN so that we can have the Spirit of the Lord expand our understanding NOW. Once we do we can then understand that from this parable we should ask daily, in every circumstance, in all situations, מה ישוע היה עושה, Mah Yeshua Hayah Osay - what would Jesus do. Thus, we are like our "rabbi" and thus we are true disciples doing the works He gave us after being saved by grace. (Eph. 2:8-10)
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Noah was a righteous man for his time. What does that mean? God is probably showing us that in those days Noah stood out among all the evil men and women of his day. That may not be saying much. If you are pick pocket and live in a community where the other men and women are murderers and terrorists, one could say that as a thief you might be a more righteous person. You are not a murderer, you do not violenting take anyone's life. You just take their wallet or purse. As compared to the others, you ain't so bad!!
Is that what God might mean? Let's go see in lesson 21. Let's also see that Noah's name means comforter. Jesus said, "And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever." (Joh 14:16) Another comforter. This means that Jesus is the comforter. He's leaving. So the Father will send another comforter in His place.
Huh? Noah means comforter. Jesus is a comforter. Is there a connection between Noah and Jesus? Seems possible since Jesus said that all scripture testifies of Himself in John 5:39. Let's jump into the study. Let's explore God's amazing instruction that is so relevant for today.
I mentioned in the closing comments that I would provide some "cool" links to some videos of Dennis Prager teaching. The first link is his 5 minute videos at PragerU on the Ten Commandments. The second link is a 5 minute PragerU video that explores what might be the most important verse in the entire Bible. Check it out. As an aside I urge you to consider becoming a student at PragerU!! There are 100's and 100's of 5 minute videos on many many topics from a conservative perspective from some of the best scholars, writers, journalists, scientists, and experts in the world. You have no idea what you are missing.
Ten Commandments @ PragerU - click here for Dennis Prager's 5 minute videos on the 10
Most Important Bible Verse - click here for Dennis Prager's lesson on the most important Bible verse
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Did you know that there is no prohibition in the Old Testament or New Testament against abortion or premarital sex? In the Old Testament there is NO law against abortion. There is no statement that sex before marriage is a sin. Yet, as followers of Jesus, as Christians, and His disciples, we all agree that abortion is murder, a terrible sin, and premarital sex is immoral and a sin. Even Josephus in his work Apion says that abortion is murder. Huh? Where does that come from? Where does God in His written word directly come against abortion and premarital sex?
When we put the word of Adonai into its historical context, back into the days of Moses, David, Solomon, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and then into the days of Jesus and the early church, there seems to be an answer that we miss. God does seem to state quite clearly to the Hebrews just out of Egypt and later to the Hebrews in the Promised Land, Canaan, and then to the Jewish people in the 2nd Temple period (500 B.C. to 70 A.D.) that abortion and premarital sex is an abomination to the Lord. This podcast suggests an alternative view based upon the historical context and the Jewish culture.
However, once we see that this is a real likelihood we also see that God seems to be teaching about something broader and more extensive then just a focus on abortion and sex outside of marriage. What He teaches relates to the days we live in now. God seems to emphasize we are to be a special observable peculiar people - distinctly different.
Video link 1 - Tel Meggido - video of Rev Ferret in Israel at a pagan baymah - high place
Video Link 2 - Bible study at the archaeological site of ancient Corinth - video of David Whiting - 1 and 2 Corinthians in their historical context
Video link 3 - "drone" fly over the Corinth reconstructed - fun video of an overview of what Corinth may have looked like
Link to key articles for further study - click here for four articles on child sacrifice and infanticide
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background
Today is May 31, 2020. For Christians it is the day of Pentecost. Pentecost (meaning 50) is one of the feasts of the Lord as found in the Torah in Leviticus 23. The feast was to be held 50 days after the feast of First Fruits that occured on the Sunday after Passover - the day Jesus rose from the dead. In Hebrew it is known as Shavuot, or the feast of weeks - it was to occur the day after 7 full Sabbaths.
I find it interesting that Pentecost Sunday is a day the Lord can speak and minister to us, the followers of Messiah Jesus, during this awful time that we are going through in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul after the murder of George Floyd. If we put this feast into its historical context, if we try and learn how the disciples of Jesus may have understood this day, if we study what this feast is really all about, God can minister to us in ways that are truly amazing and awesome and challenging.
Come Lord. On this Pentecost Sunday, come and minister to us to help us know Your heart and mind in these awful days. Come and help us understand what Pentecost can teach us about the murder of George Floyd. What can Pentecost teach us about us and what we are to be like in these days of chaos and turmoil?
I reference an article about George in "Christianity Today." Here's the link to that article so you can learn about George as a disciple of Yeshua. Link - click here for the article
Welcome to the new podcast series from Light of Menorah. These podcasts entitled, "Truth Nuggets," are short Bible studies focusing on the archaeology, history, geography, customs, culture, and the ancient languages of the ancient Near East. Our attempt is to put the Bible into its historical context and "walk on those ancient streets and roadways" with those ancient believers. We want to try and understand what they heard and saw and understood in God's word. We want to try and reconnect to the original meaning that God intended.
In this first "Truth Nugget" we look at one particular verse that is a clear example of us, 21st century Christians, taking a verse out of context and misapplying it to our circumstances. We have been so cutoff from the Bible in context that we have no other choice it seems, but to try and grasp the meaning of God's word from our own circumstances. But, once we do reconnect to Psalm 118:24 in context and consider the verses that come before and after, and consider the historical context, the verse explodes with meaning as it relates to the entire redemption plan of El Elyon, the Most High God.
A proven credible Bible scholar and historian is Dr. Craig Keener. I reference him in this porcast. He has written a short article I highly recommend you read as you continue to live to stand and hold fast to God's Word. Here is the link to the article - click here for Dr. Keener's article on the Bible in context
Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - click here for the teacher's background